The Royal Meteorological Institute (IRM) has issued a yellow warning for strong winds from October 23rd at 1 PM to October 24th at 2 AM, with gusts potentially exceeding 90 km/h along the coast, western territories, and in Hainaut. Elsewhere, gusts are expected to be between 80 and 90 km/h. A yellow warning for rain is also in effect from October 23rd at 5 AM to October 24th at 5 AM.
In response, the Walloon Public Service, through the Department of Nature and Forests (DNF), advises the public against outdoor activities in forests and urges extreme vigilance. Forest work, logging, and hunting are strongly discouraged.
Following a particularly dry summer, weakened vegetation and trees still in full leaf are more susceptible to breaking under the first strong gusts, increasing the risk of falling branches and uprooted trees. Parks and green spaces managed by the DNF will be closed to the public during the yellow warning period.
Several parks are affected by this closure, including the Parc de Mariemont, Parc Bivort in Jumet, the Arboretum Robert Lenoir in Rendeux, and the parks of Séroule and Harmonie in Verviers. The Forêt de Soignes and wooded areas of the Solvay regional domain will be closed from the evening of October 22nd until the morning of October 24th.
Expected rainfall may reach accumulations of 25 to 50 l/m² within 24 hours. It is advised to check gutters and cornices, secure outdoor objects, close windows and doors, shelter vehicles, and bring pets indoors.
When traveling, avoid sheltering under trees during high winds, do not drive through flooded roads, and do not park vehicles near trees. The emergency number 1722 has been activated for fire department assistance in cases of significant roof damage, flooded basements, or inundated public roads.
