Utrecht region in the Netherlands raises nature fire risk to Phase 2, urges preventive steps

Due to persistent drought, the nature‑fire risk in Utrecht has been upgraded to phase 2. Authorities warn that while occasional rain falls, low groundwater levels keep the ground dry, allowing fires to spread quickly. The public is advised to stay alert, avoid smoking, open flames or barbecues in natural areas, park only in designated spots, and report any suspicious activity via 112 or the 112NL app.

Utrechts Landschap, together with Veiligheidsregio Utrecht and other nature organisations, is working to balance safety with ecological value by creating climate‑resilient forests, removing fire‑hazardous vegetation and ensuring rapid emergency response.

Forest managers across the Netherlands are also enhancing prevention measures: establishing firebreaks (brandgangen) and compartmentalising forests, improving access routes for fire‑crews, adding new water reservoirs, and adjusting tree species mix to reduce flammable coniferous stands. Linde Gommers of Staatsbosbeheer notes, "The most important thing is to keep the forest wet, but climate change makes that difficult," while emphasizing that 95 % of nature fires are caused by human activity such as discarded cigarettes or campfires.