Festivities in relation to Belgium's public holiday on August 15 are coming up, but some cities have chosen to forego fireworks this year, reported RTBF.
In Liège, authorities are worried about the risk of fire due to the current period of draught. In Namur, fireworks were also was cancelled.
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"The mayors of Liège Métropole have decided to ban the various fireworks announced as part of the next festivities on August 15," an official statement read.
"Many festive events and activities are indeed planned in the 24 municipalities to celebrate the August 15 festivities after two years marked by the health crisis."
Better safe than sorry
Cancellations in Ans and Huy have also been announced, towns which also had fireworks scheduled for 13 and 15 August.
According to 'L'Avenir', there has been some uncertainty as to whether two other municipalities in Namur province would carry out fireworks on Sunday in Gembloux and Monday in Beauraing.
However, contacted by Belga, the mayor of Beauraing, Marc Lejeune, announced that the fireworks are still on."I contacted the rescue zone, which did not advise me against setting off the fireworks. Moreover, it rained all night and even quite a lot during the day. Also, we are in an area urban. So, for now, we're sticking with it."
This summer, Europe has been ravaged by wildfire, with extensive damage reported across France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany and the UK. A combination of high temperatures and drought have resulted in widespread fires.
