Traffic disruption on the E40 towards Brussels caused by two separate fires has affected commuters on 2025-06-23 20:09:00. One incident involved a truck catching fire in Affligem, while another blaze broke out in the roadside verge near Groot-Bijgaarden. Both events led to lane closures and significant delays but, fortunately, no injuries were reported.
- Fire caused traffic disruption on E40 highway
- Truck caught fire near Affligem, no injuries
- Two lanes closed during truck fire response
- Roadside fire burned 200 meters in Groot-Bijgaarden
- Firefighters deployed extensive resources to contain fire
- One lane closed during roadside fire extinguishing
The first fire occurred around 16:00 in Affligem, just past the Aalst border. A truck tractor caught fire, likely due to a technical fault, forcing the driver to evacuate safely. Emergency teams closed two lanes for firefighting and recovery operations, causing a traffic jam extending beyond Wetteren.
Simultaneously, a roadside fire ignited in Groot-Bijgaarden near the E40 service station. The blaze spread quickly over approximately 200 metres of verge, fueled by wind. Firefighters deployed extensive resources to contain the flames, with one lane closed during the effort. What impact will these incidents have on future E40 safety measures? And how can drivers better prepare for unexpected delays?
These fires highlight the vulnerability of major Belgian highways to sudden disruptions. Key takeaways include:
- Technical faults in vehicles can quickly escalate to serious traffic hazards.
- Roadside vegetation fires pose a significant risk, especially in windy conditions.
- Emergency response efficiency is crucial to minimizing traffic impact and ensuring safety.
As authorities assess these fires, drivers should stay informed about real-time traffic updates and consider alternative routes during peak hours. Could enhanced roadside monitoring and vehicle maintenance reduce future risks? Staying prepared is essential for safer journeys on Belgium’s busiest roads.
