Belgium Braces for Severe Downpours: Yellow Rain Alert Issued, Emergency Measures Activated
October 21, 2024The Royal Meteorological Institute (IRM) has issued a yellow rain alert for several regions, including Brussels, the Brabant regions, and the provinces of Hainaut, West Flanders, and East Flanders.
Specifically, the yellow alert for Hainaut will take effect at 10 PM on Sunday night.
The alert is set to remain in effect from 8 PM on Sunday until 5 AM on Monday.
This warning will continue through Monday and into early Tuesday, as a weather disturbance is expected to impact all of Belgium.
The heaviest rainfall is anticipated in the northwest region, with some areas potentially receiving over 25 liters per square meter within 24 hours.
Localized areas could see rainfall amounts reaching as high as 30 liters per square meter.
The broad coverage of the warning is due to uncertainty regarding the most active weather front.
In light of the storm and flood risks, the Interior Ministry has activated the special emergency number 1722 for non-urgent firefighter interventions.
For non-life-threatening situations, the Interior Ministry also recommends using the electronic portal 1722.be to request firefighter assistance.
For storm damage or water-related issues, individuals are advised to call 1722, while emergencies that threaten life should still use the emergency number 112.
Summary based on 2 sources