Brussels enters orange heat alert as temperatures approach 35°C

Updated 25 June 2026, 08:30 CEST — BRUSSELS. The Royal Meteorological Institute placed Brussels under an orange heat warning on Thursday as temperatures approached 35°C during an intense spell affecting most of Belgium. BX1 reported the escalation for the capital, while the institute said unusually high daytime temperatures and warm nights were increasing the strain on people, nature and water resources.

The warning means residents should take protective action rather than treat the heat as routine summer weather. The institute advises drinking regularly, wearing light clothing, staying in cool rooms and keeping daytime heat outside by closing windows and doors where appropriate. Brussels authorities have also activated the warning phase of the regional ozone and heat plan, which focuses attention on children, older people, people living alone and those with chronic health conditions.

The heat built over several days. BRUZZ reported that the orange warning began in Brussels at midnight before Wednesday and was initially scheduled to remain in force until Saturday evening. Forecasts cited by the broadcaster put temperatures above 35°C across much of Belgium, with limited cooling overnight. The coast was initially subject to a lower warning level.

Brussels faces a particular challenge because dense construction, paved surfaces and limited night-time cooling can retain heat. Brussels Environment says prolonged hot periods are increasingly accompanied by elevated ground-level ozone, which can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Its regional plan sends warnings through health and social-care networks, including hospitals, care homes, nurseries and public welfare centres.

The broader pattern is significant. The meteorological institute said an early and intense heatwave fits the observed trend towards more frequent and more extreme heat peaks in Belgium. That long-term context does not determine any single hot day, but it raises the importance of preparing homes, schools, workplaces and public spaces for repeated episodes.

Residents should continue following the institute’s warning map because alert levels and end times depend on updated forecasts. The immediate priorities are hydration, reduced strenuous activity during the hottest hours and regular contact with vulnerable neighbours or relatives. Any later change in the warning, ozone outlook or expected relief will depend on fresh assessments from the weather and public-health authorities.