Belgium and Netherlands face rising heatwaves and drought

Belgium and the Netherlands are facing imminent heatwaves and escalating drought conditions. Meteorologists predict temperatures will rise sharply from Wednesday, with local peaks reaching between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius.

In Belgium, the Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) has noted that the country is experiencing extremely dry conditions, particularly in the Sambre and Meuse region. This period is ranked as one of the driest since 1991. Experts warn that the lack of precipitation is increasing risks for critical infrastructure, including nuclear power plants, data centers, and water-dependent businesses. A yellow heat alert remains in effect for much of the country.

In the Netherlands, particularly in the eastern and southeastern regions such as Overijssel, the combination of high temperatures and minimal rainfall is driving a significant precipitation deficit. In some areas, the deficit is approaching 300 millimeters. There is a high probability of regional heatwaves being officially recorded as temperatures are expected to remain consistently above 25 degrees Celsius.