A major wildfire is currently raging in Skagen Klitplantage (Skagen Dune Plantation), prompting authorities to urge civilians to evacuate the area. The fire, which broke out Monday afternoon near Den Tilsandede Kirke (The Buried Church), is proving difficult to contain due to challenging terrain and water supply issues.
The fire department received the alarm shortly after 2 p.m. and immediately dispatched resources to the scene. As of late afternoon, 48 firefighters were on-site or en route, according to Per Vedsted, center manager from North Jutland Emergency Services.
Despite the significant response, authorities have yet to gain control over the blaze. One major obstacle is securing an adequate water supply. Furthermore, the fire has jumped over dune roads, which Vedsted describes as impassable, making containment efforts even more difficult.
Firefighters are focusing their efforts on Skagen Klitplantage, located just under ten kilometers south of Skagen. So far, more than one hectare has been consumed by the flames.
The deployment includes firefighters and equipment from stations in Sindal, Frederikshavn, and Hjørring. The Emergency Management Agency in Thisted is also assisting in the operation.
Police have issued an appeal to motorists to clear the way for emergency vehicles. Emergency services have a “massive” presence in the area around Gl. Landevej (Old Country Road) and Skagen Hede (Skagen Heath).
Due to the situation, police have closed the cycle path in a northerly direction from Hulsig. A thick column of smoke is visible from within Skagen.