Belgium storms kill one, trigger widespread damage and event cancellations

Severe thunderstorms swept Belgium overnight on 27–28 June 2026, killing a man in La Hulpe, Walloon Brabant, when a fallen tree struck his vehicle. The storm produced gusts up to 108 km/h, more than 17,500 lightning strikes and heavy rainfall, overwhelming emergency services.

Firefighters recorded hundreds of interventions across the country: over 200 calls in Walloon Brabant, more than 500 in Hainaut, 86 incidents in Brussels and dozens in Liège. Damage included fallen trees and branches on roads, power lines and railway tracks, flooded streets and a partially collapsed house in Blaregnies. Three people suffered minor injuries in Courcelles, where a “mini‑tornado” ripped apart an Italian festival.

Public events were disrupted. The Couleur Café festival in Brussels was evacuated, a Katy Perry concert in Flanders was cancelled, and several other outdoor gatherings were postponed or abandoned. Rail traffic experienced temporary suspensions on four lines due to trees on tracks and overhead lines.

Authorities warned motorists to limit travel and exercise caution as cleanup and repair work continued throughout Sunday.