Dutch wildfire risk at highest level as expert calls for new prevention methods

A major wildfire in Ede and worsening weather conditions have prompted Dutch fire authorities to call for new wildfire prevention strategies, including controlled burns and changes to vegetation, as traditional firefighting methods become less effective.

Edwin Kok, a wildfire expert with Brandweer Nederland, told ANP Thursday’s fire in Ede spread “terribly fast” due to drought and flying embers. Wind-carried burning particles ignited new fires as far as 250 meters from the original blaze. “We must invest in other ways to get this under control,” Kok said.

Kok said relying solely on water is no longer enough, as wildfires are becoming more intense due to climate change. He recommended introducing varied vegetation, including moisture-retaining plants and trees, to serve as natural fire barriers. The Netherlands has also begun using trained specialists to carry out controlled burns near active wildfires to stop larger ones from advancing. “That stops the bigger flames,” Kok said.

Earlier this week, all Dutch safety regions raised the national wildfire alert to “phase 2,” the highest level, citing prolonged drought and strong winds. Kok said this decision was made before the Ede fire due to forecasts indicating dangerous fire conditions. “Long-lasting drought and weather conditions like strong wind are not a good combination,” he said.

The phase 2 alert warns the public to remain vigilant and allows municipalities to implement restrictions such as local bans on outdoor fires. Nearly all of the country’s 25 safety regions use the risk level system, except for areas like Amsterdam-Amstelland and Zuid-Holland Zuid. A spokesperson said those regions have limited natural areas, “aside from the Biesbosch, which is surrounded by water.”