The fire in the Boschhuizerbergen nature reserve, east of Venray, has not spread further in recent hours. The situation is stable, but the fire is not yet under control, according to a spokesperson for the Limburg-Noord Safety Region.
An area of about 100 hectares has been affected. “We are now mainly trying to stop the fire from spreading any further,” the spokesperson said. “The wind has eased slightly, which is reasonably favourable.”
During the night, between 250 and 300 firefighters worked to contain the blaze. A similar number of emergency responders will remain on duty in the coming hours. As on Monday, Defence firefighting helicopters are being deployed. They were originally due to resume operations at 7:00 am, but their flights have been delayed by two hours.
The NL-Alert issued on Monday afternoon because of the smoke has been extended. Residents in areas including Smakt and Holthees are advised to stay away from the smoke, keep windows and doors closed, and give emergency services room to operate.
Authorities warn that more smoke may be released once aerial firefighting resumes. The affected area could also expand. Soot particles have settled in nearby areas, but the safety region says they are harmless.
Campers evacuated from a campsite near the fire have not yet been allowed to return. The same applies to residents of four evacuated homes.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
