Severe Drought and Heat Wave Strike Belgium’s Wallonia and Brussels

A new heat wave is forecast to arrive in Belgium early next week, worsening an already serious drought in Wallonia and Brussels. Authorities in Wallonia consider river levels dangerous for navigation and have asked nine municipalities to limit certain water uses. In Brussels, a vigilance phase urges residents to avoid non‑essential water consumption such as car washing, pool filling and lawn irrigation.

Farmers report heavy losses, with maize crops in some fields already suffering up to 50 % damage. Water shortages also affect livestock; one farmer near Sprimont now has to pump water from a river seven kilometres away to irrigate his cattle. Meteorologists say limited rain expected on Sunday and Monday will not compensate for the deficit. Climate expert Sébastien Doutreloup warned that the short‑term showers will “only help a little” and will not fill the current shortfall.