As a heatwave tightens its grip on Belgium, residents of Brussels have been seeking refuge in the city's public fountains, particularly in the expansive Parc du Cinquantenaire. The park's grand water features have become improvised cooling stations, with people of all ages splashing and lounging in the spray to escape the unrelenting sun.
Temperatures in the Belgian capital have climbed well above seasonal norms, with forecasts predicting the mercury could rise further in the coming days. The Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium has issued a code yellow warning for much of the country, advising the public to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure during peak afternoon hours.
Heatwave's Broader Impact on Europe
This latest heatwave is not confined to Belgium. Across the continent, several countries are experiencing unusually high temperatures, straining infrastructure and prompting health alerts. In France, the second heatwave of the summer is accelerating the melting of the Bossons Glacier in the French Alps, a stark reminder of the long-term environmental consequences of rising temperatures.
Travel disruptions have also been reported. Eurostar has cut services between Paris and London due to heat-related infrastructure concerns, affecting thousands of passengers. The rail operator cited the risk of track buckling and overhead line sagging as temperatures exceeded 40°C in parts of France.
In Brussels, the heatwave has drawn attention to the city's urban planning and green spaces. Parc du Cinquantenaire, with its wide avenues and monumental arches, offers some shade, but many residents have gravitated to the fountains as the most effective way to cool down. Local authorities have reminded the public that while using fountains is permitted, they should avoid drinking the water, which is not treated for consumption.
The heatwave also comes amid a busy political season in Brussels. The European Parliament is in session, and diplomats from across the bloc are navigating the sweltering conditions. Earlier this month, Jordan Bardella courted Vlaams Belang in Brussels to build a far-right alliance, a meeting that took place under the shadow of the heatwave. Meanwhile, Japan's Emperor and Empress began a state visit to Belgium, marking 160 years of bilateral ties, with events adjusted to avoid the worst of the midday heat.
Health officials across Belgium have urged vulnerable groups—including the elderly, young children, and those with chronic conditions—to take extra precautions. Cooling centers have been opened in several municipalities, and public swimming pools have extended their hours to accommodate the surge in visitors.
As the heatwave is expected to intensify, the scenes in Parc du Cinquantenaire may become more common. For now, the fountains offer a temporary respite, a communal response to a climate challenge that is becoming an increasingly regular feature of European summers.
