Zeeland dune fire burns area equal to three football fields; fireworks suspected

A fast-spreading fire burned through dunes near Groot Valkenisse on Saturday night, destroying an area roughly the size of three soccer fields, according to the regional safety authority. Police are investigating the cause, with fireworks suspected after remnants were found at the scene, NOS reports.

The blaze started on the sea-facing side of the dunes and quickly spread along the dune tops. Authorities said wind and dry conditions accelerated the fire’s movement, prompting a large-scale response.

Fire crews from six municipalities were deployed to contain the flames. Their rapid action reportedly prevented the blaze from engulfing a larger section of the protected coastal area.

By late evening, firefighters had the fire under control. No injuries were reported, and no nearby structures were threatened, officials said.

Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. “Possible fireworks involvement is being examined,” the safety authority said.