Lithuania warns of increased air pollution in Varėna district due to Belarus wildfire

A large wildfire burning in Belarus near the Lithuanian border has caused smoke to spread into Lithuania’s Varėna district, prompting health warnings for local residents, LRT reports.

Lithuanian firefighters are monitoring the blaze, which broke out in Belarus on Saturday afternoon near the village of Senovė. Strong winds carried smoke into Lithuania overnight, affecting Senovė and nearby villages, including Pėsčiai, Kabeliai, Marcinkonys, Margionys, and Šklėriai. The smoke is also drifting toward the resort town of Druskininkai.

Local authorities confirmed the fire briefly crossed into Lithuanian territory but was later extinguished. Fire crews remain on site, while residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure due to poor air quality.

The National Public Health Centre (NVSC) issued recommendations to reduce health risks, urging residents—particularly children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Wet cleaning is advised to remove settled dust and particles.

Lithuania does not coordinate with Belarus on cross-border fire data, leaving the exact size and scope of the blaze unclear.