Belgium’s Interior Ministry has activated the 1722 hotline and the 1722.be online portal for non-urgent firefighter interventions, as the country braces for possible storms and flooding.
The decision follows a yellow rain alert issued by the Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) for the Province of Luxembourg, warning of heavy rainfall from Tuesday afternoon until Wednesday morning.
According to the RMI, between 20 and 30 litres of rain per square metre could fall over a 12-hour period, raising concerns about potential water damage and localised flooding.
Authorities have urged residents to take necessary precautions and report non-urgent storm-related incidents through the designated channels to avoid overloading emergency services.
Emergency Lines to Remain Free
The 1722 hotline was introduced to ensure that emergency lines remain available for life-threatening situations.
By diverting non-urgent calls related to storm damage, such as fallen branches, minor flooding, or structural damage that does not pose immediate danger, the hotline helps prevent unnecessary delays in critical emergency responses.
Additionally, the Interior Ministry has emphasised the use of the 1722.be online portal as the preferred method for non-urgent requests.
Unlike the hotline, which first routes calls through emergency operators, the online portal directly forwards requests to local firefighting services, potentially reducing response times.
Precautionary Measures Advised
Authorities have advised residents in affected areas to stay informed through official weather updates and to take proactive measures to protect their properties.
Recommendations include clearing gutters and drainage systems, securing outdoor furniture, and staying indoors during peak storm conditions.
Motorists are also urged to exercise caution, as heavy rainfall may lead to hazardous driving conditions, including reduced visibility and water accumulation on roads.
Those residing in flood-prone areas should remain vigilant and be prepared to relocate if necessary.
Climate-Related Challenges on the Rise
Belgium has experienced an increase in severe weather incidents in recent years, prompting authorities to enhance emergency response protocols. The activation of the 1722 hotline aligns with the government’s broader strategy to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, particularly in regions prone to flooding.
Past weather events have demonstrated the importance of a well-coordinated emergency response system. In July 2021, Belgium faced catastrophic flooding that claimed multiple lives and caused widespread damage. Since then, officials have prioritised improvements in flood preparedness and public communication.
Public Response and Cooperation
Local authorities are urging residents to cooperate by using the appropriate channels for reporting incidents. The government continues to reinforce that 112 remains the number to call for urgent, life-threatening situations.
As Belgium prepares for the latest round of inclement weather, the activation of the 1722 hotline and online portal reflects a proactive approach in managing emergency resources efficiently. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and take necessary precautions as the storms approach.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
