Belgian News: Violent Storms, Sporting Events, and National Surveys
Belgium was hit by exceptionally violent storms this weekend. In some areas, notably between Charleroi and Walloon Brabant, up to 120 liters of rain per square meter fell. A climatologist explains that these storm cells were almost stationary, which caused flash floods and a deluge of lightning. Given the extent of the damage, the procedure to recognize these events as a "calamity" has already been launched.
The consequences of this severe weather are serious for several municipalities. In Auvelais, residents are without drinking water because the pumping station was flooded; water distribution points are being prepared. In Aiseau-Presles, citizens express their exhaustion after spending the night clearing mud from their homes. Heritage is not spared either: the famous Villers-la-Ville Abbey was flooded with water and mud after Saturday evening's storms.
In the capital, the "20 km of Brussels" brought together thousands of athletes, but the event put the medical services to the test. Due to the heat, the Red Cross had to treat more than 400 people along the route. Approximately 450 rescuers and 14 ambulances were mobilized to help the runners, many of whom showed signs of intense exhaustion near the finish line.
Regarding security, the Brussels police dismantled a highly structured drug trafficking network after a year-long investigation. This organization managed everything from supply to storage and sale of narcotics. The operation led to the arrest of 27 people, ten of whom were placed under arrest warrant and one minor was taken into custody by the authorities.
A major new study, the 2026 National Survey, is challenging preconceived notions about Belgians. It deconstructs the usual clichés claiming that Flanders is solely right-wing and Wallonia is left-wing. The survey explores in depth the political positions of citizens on various subjects, such as the economy, respect for the rule of law, or the recognition of the State of Palestine.
Finally, despite the difficult weather, the city of Mons celebrated its traditional Ducasse. The most anticipated moment was the "Lumeçon" combat, where Saint George faces the Dragon before a massive crowd. This historical spectacle, experienced from the inside by participants, remains an essential festive moment for the region's identity.