Easter fires banned because of drought and wind

Dozens of traditional Easter bonfires will not take place this weekend because of the fire risk, Nos television reported on Wednesday.

Strong winds and dry conditions have already led to code amber fire alerts in some parts of the country.

The habit of building massive outdoor bonfires for Easter is particularly popular in Gelderland and Overijssel. All fires in Gelderland have been banned and fire officials are studying the situation in other areas.

Collecting the wood can take months. Nos television says the traditional wood mound in Espelo, a village of 350 people in Overijssel, is now 20 metres high. The local council has not yet decided if the fire can go ahead.

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