A significant fire has engulfed Amsterdam Island in the Indian Ocean since January 15, consuming over 45% of the land due to dry weather and strong winds. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to unique biodiversity, including the Amsterdam albatross and various seal populations. While the island’s infrastructure has been affected, evacuation efforts were made for the 31 individuals present. A reconnaissance mission is planned to assess damage and investigate fire causes, focusing on biodiversity impact and potential repairs.
Fire Engulfs Amsterdam Island in the Indian Ocean
A small yet significant piece of land in the Indian Ocean has turned into a raging inferno. Amsterdam Island, part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF), has been ablaze since January 15. As reported by the TAAF prefecture to AFP on February 7, the fire has now consumed over 45% of the island’s territory in just over three weeks. The cause of this disaster can be attributed to “dry weather and strong, swirling winds, which have shifted direction frequently since January 15,” according to official statements.
Impact on Biodiversity and Scientific Research
In an earlier assessment on January 29, authorities noted that approximately 18% of the island—equivalent to 1,048 hectares—had been affected by the flames. Given Amsterdam Island’s remoteness, officials have stated, “we are letting it happen,” as there are no available resources to extinguish the fire. This volcanic island, standing at 881 meters high and covering an area of 58 km², is one of the most isolated locations worldwide, located about 2,800 km southeast of Réunion. Its temperate climate, combined with a lack of fresh water, has resulted in drier vegetation, which is particularly susceptible to fires.
Amsterdam Island is a treasure trove of unique biodiversity, hosting numerous seabird species, including the endemic Amsterdam albatross and the yellow-nosed albatross, which breeds 65% of its global population here. Additionally, it houses the third-largest population of fur seals and elephant seals globally. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island is part of the natural reserve of the French Southern Lands.
When the fire broke out, 31 individuals—including military personnel and scientists—were on the island. They were all evacuated to Réunion the following day. The island features the Martin-de-Viviès scientific station, one of only two global facilities monitoring atmospheric pollution, alongside the Bénédicte Point station, located 2.5 km from Martin-de-Viviès. The latter serves as a reference point for air pollution monitoring and climate change studies.
The prefecture reported that while the buildings at the base remain intact, some critical infrastructure, including water supply and telecommunications, has been compromised. A reconnaissance mission aboard the Floréal, a French Navy surveillance frigate, is set to commence from Réunion soon, contingent on weather conditions as cyclones are approaching the area.
A team comprising four professional firefighters from the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service of Réunion and seven technical staff from TAAF, including a medical doctor, will participate in this mission. Their objectives are to assess the fire’s progression, evaluate the damage incurred, and investigate the unknown causes of the fire. This mission is expected to continue until early March, with a focus on determining the impact on biodiversity and exploring the possibility of establishing a new life base and conducting repairs on Amsterdam Island.