Belgium — As meteorological spring began on Saturday, residents across Belgium were greeted with unseasonably warm and sunny weather, a welcome change after winter’s prolonged grip.
According to the latest forecasts from the Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI), the pleasant conditions are expected to persist throughout the week, offering a sunny Carnival break for pupils on holiday.
With winter’s chill finally subsiding, temperatures are set to rise steadily in the coming days. On Tuesday, maximum temperatures will range between 10°C and 12°C across most provinces.
The warmth will continue to build, reaching 15°C on Wednesday. By Thursday, a mild southern wind will push temperatures to a spring-like 17°C, significantly higher than average for this time of year.
Friday promises to deliver the peak of this spring preview, with clear skies, light winds, and maximum temperatures soaring to 18°C. However, the RMI has noted a sharp contrast between day and night temperatures, a pattern known as a “sawtooth wave.”
While daytime warmth will be a treat, nighttime temperatures will continue to hover near freezing, reminding Belgians that winter may not be completely over.
The weekend forecast suggests a continuation of Friday’s mild and sunny conditions, though Sunday could see increased cloud cover as Belgium sits on the edge of a precipitation zone extending from France.
Meteorologists are closely monitoring this system, but significant rainfall is not expected to disrupt the springlike spell. The timing of the warm weather could not be better for Belgians, who have been eager for relief from winter’s grey skies and cold temperatures.
Parks and public spaces in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent were already bustling over the weekend, with many residents taking the opportunity to bask in the sun. Café terraces were filled, and coastal areas reported a noticeable increase in visitors.
The RMI has advised residents to make the most of the sunny days, as Belgium’s spring weather is notoriously unpredictable. While the current forecast suggests an extended period of warmth, sudden shifts to cooler or wetter conditions remain possible.
Gardeners and farmers, in particular, have been cautioned against rushing to plant frost-sensitive crops despite the warm days ahead. The stark temperature drop during nighttime could still pose a risk to young plants.
For now, however, Belgium seems set to enjoy a week of sunshine and mild temperatures, a much-needed morale boost after months of overcast skies and chilly winds. With Carnival celebrations in full swing, the timing of this early taste of spring could hardly be more perfect.
