Belgium: Emergency services evacuate buildings due to a fire in central Nivelles, Sept. 18

Event

Emergency services are responding to a fire at the Grand Place of Nivelles, Belgium, as of the afternoon of Sept. 18. Officials dispatched law enforcement to the scene to cordon off the area. Road traffic has been diverted and residents are being evacuated from a number of buildings in the area. Residents are asked to close windows and ventilation. Smoke from the fire is reportedly visible from several parts of the city. Officials did not immediately confirm the cause of the blaze or any casualties.

Heightened security measures are likely in the area until firefighters vacate the scene. Transport disruptions are likely. The smoke from the fire may noticeably worsen air quality in the area over the short term.

Advice

Avoid the incident site until authorities complete response operations and give the all-clear. Allow additional time if traveling in the affected area and seek alternative routes to circumvent any residual transport disruptions. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.