The Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) has issued a yellow weather warning for storms on Saturday as a disturbance will sweep across the country from west to east in the afternoon and evening.
As a result, parks in Brussels will be closed from 17:00 and the non-emergency firefighters' line 1722 has been activated, the Brussels Environment agency and Home Affairs Ministry announced.
The RMI anticipates that the storm showers will result in a large amount of rainfall over a short period, potentially causing powerful gusts. Winds could reach between 80-90 km/h, and possibly stronger in localised areas. A code yellow alert has therefore been issued for the whole of Belgium from 15:00 to 22:00.
To avoid overloading the emergency number 112, the number 1722 has been activated. In the event of significant damage caused by wind or rain, requests for firefighter assistance can be made through this number.
The Home Affairs Ministry advises using the online counter on the website, as it is the most direct route to contact the fire service. It is also possible to directly call the number. If a life is in danger, 112 should be dialled.
Parks closed
The weather warning has also prompted Brussels Environment to restrict public access to parks, nature reserves and regional woods, including the Sonian Forest, from 17:00.
"Parks, nature reserves and regional woods in the capital will be closed from 17:00 on Saturday," Brussels Environment announced in an official statement.
Brussels Environment also urges people to keep away from areas with trees.
