Belgium opens churches and studies cool roofs to combat deadly heat wave

Belgium is confronting a severe heat wave that has driven excess mortality across the country, with 1,747 more deaths than expected between 18 June and 1 July, according to the public‑health institute Sciensano. In response, the Belgian Episcopal Conference, led by Archbishop Luc Terlinden, agreed with the federal climate minister to open as many churches as possible as cooling shelters, while respecting their sacred character.

Separately, researchers from KU Leuven and partner institutions have shown that widespread adoption of "cool roofs"—light‑coloured or reflective roofing materials—could lower daytime urban temperatures by about 2 °C and prevent roughly a quarter of heat‑related deaths. Combining cool roofs with increased green spaces would enhance protection both day and night.