Belgium is currently under winter weather alerts following significant snowfall affecting various regions, particularly the provinces of Luxembourg, Liège, and Namur. The Royal Meteorological Institute (IRM) has issued warnings for slippery conditions due to fresh snowfall combined with low temperatures, raising concerns for road safety.
On the morning of Monday, snow began to accumulation across the country, leading to difficulties on major transport routes. The police reported multiple incidents involving trucks on highways such as the E411, E25, and E40, where snow coverage caused disruptions. Authorities recommended travelers maintain safe distances, avoid sudden braking, and reduce speed.
The IRM forecasted variable weather throughout the day, with temperature highs ranging from 1 to 8 degrees Celsius depending on the region. While the coastal areas may experience milder rain, the Ardennes are expected to see snow, especially above 500 meters, where 4 to 10 centimeters of snow could accumulate.
Monday afternoon will see continued precipitation, predominantly as rain at lower altitudes but still sporadic flakes at higher elevations. Weather conditions are anticipated to clear somewhat as the day progresses, but showers may still occur across central and eastern regions.
Looking forward to Christmas Eve and Day, the forecast suggests cloudy, gray skies, with low chances for substantive changes. The situation might lead to more rain and reduced chances for remaining snow from Monday’s accumulation, significantly dampening hopes for a white Christmas across the nation.
With snow covering the areas around Ovifat, winter sports enthusiasts have been making the most of the conditions, taking to sledding, even if skiing remains unfeasible due to rain mixing with snow. Pierre Heinen, from the local ski club, lamented the weather conditions, stating, "We have 15 to 20 centimeters of snow, but it’s raining, which is unfortunate. If we had some frost, it could have been open, but the slopes are accessible for tobogganing." The auditory echoes of laughter and splashing through the accumulated snow provided poignant scenes as families engaged with the winter weather.
The IRM has continued to keep the public informed through updates as conditions change. A yellow alert for slick roads was issued for many regions on Sunday evening, predicting icy surfaces and slippery conditions due to both the snowfall and the impending rain.
While family members and friends prepare for holiday gatherings, safety on the roads remains the primary concern as many vehicles face traction challenges today. The IRM's officials are reiterative about the importance of heedfulness: “Stay vigilant and drive cautiously,” they reiterated.
The following days will see gradual warming, with Tuesday and Wednesday expected to hover around temperatures of 0 to 11 degrees Celsius, leading to rain replacing accumulated snow and presenting potential risks for icy patches.
Through these events, it’s clear to many Belgians, winter is not just about the picturesque snowfall but also the accompanying challenges it brings, especially on the roads. Resilience is called for, as both inhabitants and travelers navigate the snowy landscapes.
