The Brussels-Capital Region has returned to green status for drought after two months on yellow alert, following recent rainfall that has eased pressure after the summer dry spell, the authorities announced on Thursday after a meeting of the regional drought task force.
According to Brussels Environment, rainfall in recent weeks, particularly the severe storm on 24 October, has helped bring the situation partly back to normal. However, water levels in the Meuse remain a concern.
One of the main issues reviewed before the decision was drinking water supply. Vivaqua said supplies are currently operating as normal.
The company is continuing to monitor the situation closely and said it has reserve abstraction capacity it can use if needed. It is also monitoring the level of the Meuse, which supplies water to the Tailfer production centre.
Water levels in the main non-navigable waterways are once again considered normal for this time of year. Levels in several groundwater layers are still falling, but they are no longer regarded as critical.
The risk of forest fires also remains at green level, based on field observations by Brussels Environment and an assessment by the Agency for Nature and Forests for the province of Flemish Brabant.
There are no restrictions on shipping, and the regional task force will continue to monitor developments.
