KMI Issues Code Yellow Thunderstorm Warning Across Much of Belgium
The Royal Meteorological Institute (KMI) has issued a Code Yellow thunderstorm warning for a large part of Belgium, effective Tuesday, June 2, 2026, until 23:00 local time. The emergency number 1722 has been activated by the Federal Public Service for Home Affairs to handle non-life-threatening storm-related incidents as severe weather is expected to sweep across the country.
Affected Regions and Expected Conditions
The warning covers all of Wallonia, Limburg, Flemish Brabant, and Brussels. West and East Flanders are excluded, as less than 20 liters per square meter of rainfall is expected there. According to VRT NWS, localized heavy thunderstorms are expected, particularly in the afternoon, with strong wind gusts and rainfall amounts that could locally reach up to 40 millimeters in 24 hours.
“We’re going to get quite wet today,” said Weerman Bram, a meteorologist at VRT NWS. “We expect 10 to locally 40 liters of water per square meter in less than 24 hours.” He noted that a first band of showers would move from west to east in the morning, followed by a second, more active band in the afternoon and evening, bringing the risk of thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, and heavy precipitation in a short period.
The KMI stated that while the warning is currently at Code Yellow, it “tends toward orange,” and a later escalation is possible depending on how the weather develops. The institute warned of potential flooding, hail, and heavy wind gusts that could cause damage, particularly in the central and southeastern parts of the country.
Emergency Number 1722 Activated
In response to the forecast, the Federal Public Service for Home Affairs has activated the emergency number 1722. This dedicated line is specifically for non-life-threatening situations requiring fire brigade assistance, such as storm damage or water damage from flooding. For life-threatening emergencies, the standard emergency number 112 remains available.
Citizens can also submit requests for assistance via the online portal at www.1722.be. The activation of 1722 is a standard procedure during severe weather events, designed to keep emergency lines free for critical situations.
As NNieuws reported, the warning system has been in effect for several days, with earlier warnings issued on May 29 for the provinces of Antwerp, Limburg, and Liège. The current warning represents an expansion of the affected area.
Recent Severe Weather Context
This warning follows a weekend of severe thunderstorms that brought significant damage across Belgium. Hailstones larger than ping-pong balls were reported, causing damage to property and vehicles. VRT NWS published advice on May 31 urging residents to document damage with photographs before beginning repairs and to contact their insurance providers promptly.
Understanding the Warning System
The KMI operates a color-coded warning system to communicate weather risks to the public. According to the KMI’s official guidelines, Code Yellow means the public should be alert, as locally severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, hail, or strong wind gusts are possible and could cause localized disruption or damage. Code Orange indicates that dangerous weather is expected and the public should be prepared, while Code Red signals extreme weather with significant impact.
Outlook for the Week
The unstable weather pattern is expected to persist throughout the week. Showers are forecast for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures gradually dropping. By Friday, highs in central Belgium are expected to reach only around 16°C. The weekend may bring some relief, with Sunday forecast to be mostly dry and sunny.
What Residents Should Do
Authorities advise residents in affected areas to secure loose outdoor objects, avoid unnecessary travel during peak thunderstorm periods in the afternoon, and keep the 1722 number ready for non-emergency storm damage. The KMI and local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels.
As the weather situation develops, the possibility of an escalation to Code Orange remains, particularly if thunderstorms intensify as predicted. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow guidance from emergency services.