Persistent rain, low clouds and grey skies will dominate much of the week across Belgium, but forecasters say a notable shift toward wintry weather is expected by the weekend, with frost and possible snowfall in several regions.
According to the Royal Meteorological Institute, unsettled conditions will continue in the days leading up to the carnival holidays. Periods of rain and damp weather are forecast nationwide, with daytime highs hovering around 10°C.
The soggy pattern has left streets wet and skies overcast for much of the country, dampening early holiday travel plans and outdoor activities. Commuters have faced intermittent showers and limited sunshine as the week progresses.
Meteorologists say the first signs of colder air will arrive from Friday. Winter precipitation is expected to develop initially in higher elevations, particularly across the Ardennes, before spreading toward lower parts of the country.
Temperatures will gradually dip, marking a transition from mild late-winter rain to more seasonal cold. While rainfall will remain common at first, snow and sleet could begin mixing in, especially overnight and early morning.
By Saturday morning, frost is forecast to be widespread across inland areas, sparing mainly the coast where maritime air keeps temperatures slightly higher. Authorities warn that icy patches may form on untreated roads and pavements.
The south-east and far east are considered most vulnerable to slippery conditions. Drivers are being urged to reduce speed and allow extra travel time as black ice could develop before sunrise.
Skies are expected to remain largely grey during the early hours of Saturday, though the day should stay mostly dry. Light, temporary snowfall may occur in elevated zones such as the Hautes Fagnes and parts of Belgian Lorraine.
These flurries are not expected to cause significant accumulation at first, but forecasters say conditions could change quickly depending on temperature shifts and moisture levels. Even a thin layer of snow could create hazardous driving conditions.
As the day progresses, cloud cover is predicted to thin out, allowing sunshine to break through during the afternoon. Despite brighter intervals, temperatures will remain cold, with maximum readings ranging between –3°C and +5°C.
The colder air mass will set the stage for a chillier night into Sunday. Early morning frost is likely once again, accompanied by scattered patches of cloud.
However, the respite from precipitation may be brief. A new disturbance approaching from the west is expected to increase cloud cover rapidly, bringing another round of unsettled weather later in the day.
During Sunday afternoon and evening, an area of rain is forecast to sweep across the country from west to east. Ahead of the rain band, winter precipitation such as sleet or wet snow could fall, particularly in higher terrain.
In the Ardennes, forecasters say several centimetres of snow may accumulate overnight, creating a more pronounced winter landscape. Local authorities are monitoring conditions and preparing gritting operations where necessary.
Temperatures on Sunday will remain low throughout the day, with the highest values only reached late in the afternoon. Expected maxima range from –2°C to +3°C, reinforcing the wintry feel.
A strengthening southerly wind will add to the chill, becoming moderate to fairly strong at times. Gusts could make conditions feel colder than the thermometer suggests, especially in exposed rural areas.
The shifting weather comes just before the start of the carnival holiday period, when many families plan trips or outdoor celebrations. Officials recommend checking forecasts regularly and taking precautions against frost and snow.
With umbrellas still needed through most of the week and scarves likely required by the weekend, Belgium’s weather is set to deliver a rapid reminder that winter is not yet over.
