High winds continue to fan the flames of devastating forest fire in Valais

Source: twitter.com/policevalais (@policevalais)

A forest fire in the canton of Valais, which has destroyed 100 hectares of forest, an area the size of around 140 football pitches, is still raging due to high winds.

The fire began in the Brig region early on Monday evening and appeared to be under control yesterday morning until strong winds fanned the flames, spreading the fire further.

More than 200 residents were evacuated from their homes as the fire took hold although many have now been allowed to return. The Ried-Mörel road remains closed until further notice.

Nearly 200 people, including 150 firefighters, have been tackling the fire assisted by seven helicopters. The Swiss army is deploying soldiers to the area today to help in the operation along with two specially equipped vehicles to locate hotspots of fires and embers.

 

 

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