Brussels and France grapple with severe drought and water restrictions

The Brussels region has extended its yellow drought alert, warning of heightened fire risk in the Soignes Forest and an increased chance of sudden branch drops from weakened trees. Authorities, including Brussels Environment, urge residents to limit non‑essential water use such as car washing and to stay on marked paths in forests.

In France, homeowners are seeing lawns turn yellow as a natural summer dormancy response to prolonged heat and water scarcity. Experts advise against daily watering, especially during the hottest part of the day, and recommend higher mowing heights and reduced foot traffic to help grass survive the drought period while conserving hundreds of litres of water each week.