Severe weather warnings have been issued across parts of Belgium and the Netherlands as authorities brace for potential storm damage and hazardous conditions this week. The Royal Meteorological Institute (KMI) has announced code yellow alerts for slippery conditions due to expected snowfall, particularly impacting the provinces of Liège, Namur, and Luxembourg.
KMI meteorologist Frank Duboccage forecasts snowfall beginning tonight as disturbances from the northwest move over the Ardennes. At elevations above 500 meters, residents may see 4 to 10 centimeters of fresh snow, with 1 to 4 centimeters possible at lower elevations before rain takes over later. Other parts of the country should also prepare for possibly wintry precipitation.
Warnings extend to coastal areas where strong winds are anticipated, with code yellow issued for gusts up to 80 to 95 kilometers per hour expected tonight. With these severe conditions looming, the Belgian Federal Public Service (FPS) Interior has activated the emergency number 1722 for non-life-threatening incidents related to the weather, urging the public to use the online platform www.1722.be for assistance whenever possible.
"We advise residents to prepare for severe gusts of wind and take precautionary actions," the KMI emphasizes. They recommend securing loose objects, bringing pets indoors, and avoiding parks or wooded areas which may pose additional risks. For any life-threatening situations, authorities continue to urge dialing 112.
Reports indicate there is potential for significant snowfall, especially during the night and Monday afternoon, along with rain, as the weather fluctuates. Temperature highs are expected to remain cold, ranging between 1 and 5 degrees Celsius for areas south of the Sambre and Maas rivers, and slightly warmer at 5 to 8 degrees Celsius elsewhere.
Over the weekend, the situation escalated as the Dutch weather service KNMI issued code orange warnings for northern provinces due to heavy wind gusts from Storm Conall. Gusts of up to 120 to 130 kilometers per hour are expected along the coast, causing disruptions and safety hazards.
Tragically, the storm claimed the life of one individual who was struck by falling debris caused by the severe winds. Officials reinforced the need for residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm's effects.
Preparations are underway as authorities stress the importance of community awareness and safety during such emergencies. Flooding and wind damage can significantly hinder standard emergency response measures, highlighting the importance of using the newly activated 1722 number responsibly.
Lastly, residents are reminded to stay updated on weather advisories and heed all warnings. The temporary activation of the 1722 number is precautionary and does not indicate the extent of potential damage but serves as part of the emergency response system to manage and maintain order during the upcoming adverse conditions.
With conditions expected to worsen, Belgium and the Netherlands remain on high alert as they prepare for what could be one of the most significant weather events of the season.
