After a brief spell of milder temperatures and rare sunshine, Belgium is bracing for a return to winter conditions, with light snow and chilly weather expected across the country on Thursday.
The Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) has warned that unstable maritime polar air will pass over Belgium, bringing a mix of strong upward movements, frequent showers, and increased wind speeds.
This shift comes just a week after temperatures soared to around 20°C, marking a stark contrast to the cold spell now gripping the country.
Winter Showers and Thunder Possible
Thursday will begin with some sunshine and clouds over the central regions, but this will soon be replaced by winter showers moving in from the west by midday.
“There is also a chance of thunder,” the RMI cautioned, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the current weather patterns.
Maximum temperatures will range between 4°C in the High Ardennes and 7°C or 8°C in Brussels. While snowfall is expected in several parts of the country, including the capital, it is unlikely to settle for long due to the relatively mild temperatures.
However, in the High Fens and Eastern Cantons, where temperatures will drop closer to freezing, a thin layer of snow may form overnight. Showers will persist into the evening and night, with the Ardennes likely experiencing continued wintry conditions.
Weekend Forecast: Cold and Cloudy with Some Sunshine
Looking ahead to the weekend, Belgium will remain under the influence of the altitude trough moving eastward. This means that while the intense wintry conditions will ease slightly, the weather will remain unsettled.
Friday will be predominantly cloudy with sporadic showers, especially in the High Ardennes, where snowfall is expected to linger. Meanwhile, coastal areas could experience some sunny spells in the afternoon, offering brief respite from the grey skies.
Saturday is expected to start off with widespread patches of freezing fog, reducing visibility in several areas.
As the day progresses, skies will clear in the Ardennes and along the coast, while other parts of the country may remain under persistent cloud cover. Temperatures will stay on the lower side, with highs ranging between 3°C and 8°C.
Sunday morning is set to bring more localized haze and freezing fog. However, conditions will improve throughout the day, with increasing sunshine and temperatures climbing slightly to between 5°C and 9°C.
Cold Spell Follows Unseasonable Warmth
This sudden return to winter weather follows an unusually warm spell for early spring, with Belgium experiencing temperatures of 20°C just a week ago. Meteorologists attribute this dramatic change to shifts in atmospheric pressure patterns, drawing in cold air from the north.
While the upcoming days may feel like a step back into winter, forecasters remain hopeful that more stable spring-like conditions will return in the coming weeks.
Until then, Belgians are advised to brace for chilly temperatures, dress warmly, and prepare for possible snow showers, particularly in higher-altitude regions.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
