Ghent canals covered in green duckweed following record heat

The canals and rivers in Ghent, Belgium, have been covered by a thick layer of bright green duckweed. This massive proliferation of the aquatic plant is being attributed to record-breaking heatwaves and a lack of rainfall, following what has been described as the hottest summer in Belgian history.

Geert Weymeis, a spokesperson for Flanders Waterways, noted that while the plant is typically found in stagnant water, it is now spreading extensively throughout the region. The phenomenon is particularly visible on the Lys River, which flows from northern France into the Scheldt in Ghent.

While the visual contrast of the green water against the sky has become a point of interest for tourists and photographers, environmental concerns remain. The dense layer of duckweed blocks sunlight from reaching the water, which can harm aquatic biodiversity. The plant itself is not toxic, and boat travel remains safe for visitors.