Flanders region maintains code orange drought warning in Belgium

A code orange drought alert will remain in effect in Belgium's Flanders region despite recent rainfall and further precipitation forecast in the coming days, authorities said Thursday. The decision was made by the Flemish Drought Commission following an exceptionally dry September, Flemish Environment and Agriculture Minister Jo Brouns said in a statement cited by broadcaster VRT. Authorities said the hydrological situation remains "vulnerable," with water levels and flows in several waterways still at very low levels for this time of year. Groundwater reserves have also shown limited recovery. About 84% of monitoring points are recording low to extremely low groundwater levels compared with seasonal averages. The situation is particularly concerning in the Yser basin, where high salinization pressure continues to pose a threat. While the expected rainfall may bring temporary improvements in some areas, authorities said it will not be sufficient to replenish water reserves structurally. Several drought-related measures, as a result, remain in force. Temporary bans on water abstraction apply to a number of non-navigable waterways, while water-saving measures remain in place on navigable waterways, including restrictions on lock operations and vessel draft. The drinking water supply remains secure, although authorities stressed the need for continued vigilance in all supply areas.