Belgium heatwave kills 1,747 people, triggers yellow alert and new public health measures

A June heatwave in Belgium resulted in an excess mortality of almost 48 %, equating to 1,747 deaths in a country of 11 million inhabitants. The spike prompted the health authorities to re‑issue a yellow heat‑alert and issue clear guidance: keep windows and curtains closed during the hottest hours, ventilate at night, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., and check on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children and pregnant women.

The government’s limited air‑conditioning infrastructure and homes designed for winter have turned residences into “ovens” in summer. Officials have suggested opening climate‑controlled public spaces, such as museums, as temporary cooling centres. In the political arena, Defence Minister Theo Franken drew criticism after posting on social media, "Lleva dos días haciendo calor y ya nos vamos a morir otra vez…" and promising a photo with a cold Stella by the pool. Opposition parties and environmental groups have also highlighted the lack of public swimming facilities in Brussels.

Health‑service agencies stress that simple measures—closing curtains, using fans with night‑time ventilation, drinking water before feeling thirsty, and monitoring for signs of heat‑exhaustion—can significantly reduce the health impact of future heatwaves.