Following the favorable evolution of the fire in the Hautes Fagnes and the completion of security work, the Provincial Coordination Committee decided to lift the provincial emergency phase. This decision, made on September 16, 2026, marks the end of the exceptional provincial coordination system. An operational coordination between the relevant services will now take over for ongoing monitoring.
The Department of Nature and Forests (DNF) and the rescue zones will continue perimeter reconnaissance. Sporadic flare-ups remain possible and may require intervention. For safety reasons, access to the burned area remains prohibited to the public. The emergency number 112 should only be used for direct observations of flames, spread, significant smoke, or threats to people, buildings, or vehicles, as well as for any fire start outside the Hautes Fagnes fire perimeter.
Practical information is available by theme, including general recommendations: do not go into the affected area, follow official channels, respect diversions, close doors and windows if affected by smoke, and do not contact emergency services for information. Flying drones in the fire zone is also strictly prohibited.
The fire, which started on August 14, has severely weakened the environment. Risks persist, including falling weakened trees, smoldering ground fires, potentially harmful smoke, the discovery of old war munitions, and the vulnerability of wildlife.
The dams of Eupen and La Gileppe are reopened, as are roads N676 and N672. The N68 road between Belle-Croix and Eupen was reopened on September 11 at 5:00 PM, with a speed limit of 50 km/h and parking prohibited.
Water analyses from SWDE and the municipality of Bütgenbach, as well as the springs of Spa Monopole, show no health risks. Enhanced air quality monitoring is maintained by the Scientific Institute of Public Service (ISSeP).
Recommendations are provided in case of smoke: stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, limit outdoor travel and physical exertion. Increased vigilance is advised for vulnerable individuals (respiratory or cardiac history, elderly, infants, pregnant women).
Regarding wildlife, no major issues have been observed. Domestic and wild animals are being cared for by professionals. Visitors are reminded not to enter affected areas without the consent of competent services. Material donations are no longer needed, but a Solidarity Fund has been launched by the King Baudouin Foundation to support the restoration of the Hautes Fagnes.
The tourism sector is supported by VISITWallonia, offering an updated map of accessible areas and alternative hiking routes. A single number (081/32.56.11) is available for tourism operators.
The panoramic restaurant at La Gileppe lake, the tower, the lakeside brasserie, and the accropark are reopened. The lakes of Bütgenbach and Robertville fully reopened to the public on September 10, 2026.
A Restoration Committee has been established to assess the fire's consequences and identify necessary work. The Walloon Government will also engage the Consultation Committee to improve alert systems, air quality monitoring, and health recommendation coordination.
