The Drought Cell of the Walloon Region, which brings together various water sector stakeholders in the south of Belgium, reported on Tuesday that while the water levels in several rivers remain low, groundwater reserves are generally above those of previous years, but warns of a July that is expected to be “drier” and “hotter” than usual.
Following “slightly above normal” rainfall over the past three weeks, the Wallonia Drought Cell convened on Tuesday to assess the state of water resources and drought. They found that several navigable waterways are “particularly low for the season, especially in the west.” While the situation warrants “monitoring,” it is “not alarming” for non-navigable waterways. Reservoir dams are also “generally low,” but no special measures are currently needed.
Groundwater levels are notably “higher than those observed in previous years.”
The quality of bathing water remains good across all 25 designated zones, according to authorities. However, kayaking is prohibited on the Viroin and the downstream section of the Ourthe from Nisramont due to low water levels.
There are no issues with water distribution, and the risk of wildfires has decreased. Nevertheless, vigilance is advised “given the high temperatures forecast.”
A heatwave is expected until 24 June, followed by three days of thunderstorms. “In the longer term, a July that is drier than usual is forecast, along with higher than normal temperatures,” warns the cell, though no specific measures are planned until their next meeting on 1 July.
