Belgium braces for heatwave: 'The signals are not good'

Belgium is set to experience a significant heatwave, with temperatures rising sharply this week. The Belgian Institute for Meteorology (IRM) forecasts mercury levels to reach 30°C in the center of the country by Friday, potentially climbing to 32°C on Saturday and peaking at 33-34°C on Sunday, particularly in the Lorraine region.

The heat is expected to persist, with temperatures likely to remain above 30°C for much of the following week, possibly extending into early August. While the IRM indicates a slight increase in the risk of precipitation later in the week, leading to a gradual decrease in temperatures towards seasonal norms, the overall outlook suggests a prolonged period of warm and dry conditions.

Experts from La Chaîne Météo note that the prevailing high-pressure systems over France, drawing heat from North Africa, are influencing the weather patterns across the region. This suggests a continued risk of very high temperatures, especially in southern France, and a potential worsening of drought conditions by early August.

Although Belgium's heatwave is not anticipated to reach the extreme levels seen in France, where temperatures could soar to 40°C in some areas, the sustained high temperatures raise concerns. The IRM has placed the entire country on yellow alert for heat. The prolonged warmth and dryness could exacerbate drought conditions, impacting various sectors and raising public health concerns, particularly for vulnerable populations.