Tienen churches open doors as cool havens during heatwave

As temperatures in Tienen soar above 30 degrees Celsius, prompting the Royal Meteorological Institute to raise the heat warning to orange, the city is activating its heat plan. This plan includes practical advice for residents and the opening of public cooling centers.

Mayor Jonathan Holslag urged citizens to wear light clothing, stay in the shade, and limit physical exertion. The city highlighted green spaces like the Stadspark and Vianderdomein, as well as the fountain on Schapenmarkt, as primary cooling locations. Additionally, air-conditioned study areas and a drinking fountain in the Sociaal Huis are available.

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So we ask our residents to wear light clothing, stay more in the shade, and limit physical exertion.

Responding to the city's call for cool spaces, the church community has opened its doors. The Sint-Germanuskerk, with its thick walls, is described as an "oasis of coolness." However, the pastor has requested that visitors show respect and refrain from treating the sacred space as a public campsite.

The city is monitoring the situation closely and will provide further updates and measures as needed. The initiative aims to provide relief during the extreme heat while ensuring public spaces are used appropriately.

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With its thick walls, the Sint-Germanuskerk is for example an oasis of coolness. However, the pastor asks that the necessary respect be shown. It does not have to become a campsite.