Oostrum wildfire explodes to 100 hectares overnight, 300 evacuated as smoke drifts into Germany

Fire spread and response

A wildfire that broke out on Monday afternoon in the Boschhuizerbergen nature reserve near Oostrum, in the Dutch province of Limburg, expanded rapidly overnight. By Tuesday morning the affected area had grown from 21 hectares to 100 hectares, according to provincial authorities. The fire remained out of control through the early afternoon, though a slight easing of the wind offered some relief. Between 250 and 350 emergency personnel were deployed, supported by army helicopters that scooped water from the Maas river. Ground crews cut firebreaks to contain the flames.

“Wegen der Trockenheit kann sich das Feuer in Naturschutzgebieten schnell ausbreiten.”

Evacuations and disruptions

Around 300 holidaymakers were evacuated from a nearby campsite because of deteriorating air quality. Train services between Nijmegen and Venray were suspended after firefighters had to work directly alongside the tracks. The fire, which started in the tree crowns, spread quickly through the dry vegetation.

Smoke reaches Germany

Thick smoke drifted across the border into Germany, particularly affecting the district of Kleve in North Rhine-Westphalia. Residents reported an acrid smell throughout Tuesday, and authorities advised people to keep windows and doors closed. A fire service spokesperson in Kleve said there was no direct danger to the population. The smoke also reached the Dutch provinces of Gelderland, Overijssel and Friesland.

“Es besteht aber keine Gefahr für die Bevölkerung.”

Weather and outlook

The fire erupted during a period of heat and drought affecting several European countries. Shifting winds had fanned the flames overnight, but by Tuesday afternoon the wind had weakened, which officials described as favourable. The exact cause of the fire remained under investigation, and firefighters were hoping for rain to aid their efforts.