Drought Causes Trees to Fall in Zoutleeuw; Fire Department Inspects Parks and Bike Paths

The ongoing drought in Zoutleeuw, Belgium, is leading to dangerous situations as trees are falling and large branches are breaking. The city, in collaboration with the fire department, is conducting urgent inspections of trees in vulnerable areas.

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We see that many trees are falling and branches are breaking. The trees are having a very difficult time, and it's really becoming a problem.

Mayor Guy Dumst stated that many trees are collapsing and branches are snapping due to the prolonged dry spell, causing significant stress to the trees. "The trees are having a very difficult time, and it's really becoming a problem," he said. To mitigate risks, Dumst has requested the fire department to inspect several sensitive locations, emphasizing that safety is paramount.

Inspections are focusing on the city park, trees along busy roads, and the Jonas Vlayenpad, a popular cycling route for children. The mayor stressed the need to identify and address any hazardous situations promptly. Residents are advised to be vigilant, especially in wooded areas. They are encouraged to immediately move to safety if they hear any cracking sounds from trees and to report any trees that appear unstable or have broken branches.

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I don't want to leave anything to chance. That's why a number of trees are being inspected today.

The city is considering temporary closures of certain zones based on the advice from the fire department and arborists. The outcome of these inspections is also crucial for a planned open-air theater performance in the city park, which expects around 250 attendees. An alternative venue has already been secured in case the park is deemed unsafe. The mayor expects to receive expert recommendations soon and will make decisions based on their professional assessments.

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If people hear something cracking, I ask them to get to safety as quickly as possible and leave that place.