Belgium activates its ozone plan in the face of a heatwave
The Federal Public Service (FPS) Health has officially activated the alert phase of the "Ozone and Heatwave Plan" across the entire Belgian territory. This decision comes as temperatures rise significantly and ozone concentrations in the air exceed the thresholds recommended for health.
The rise in temperatures, combined with strong sunlight, promotes the formation of ground-level ozone. This pollutant can cause respiratory tract irritation, headaches, or increased fatigue. Health authorities are therefore calling for vigilance, particularly for the most vulnerable people such as children, the elderly, and individuals suffering from respiratory diseases.
To limit risks, it is advised to reduce intense physical exertion outdoors, especially during the hottest hours of the day, between noon and 8 p.m. It is also recommended to drink water regularly, stay in cool places, and keep homes sheltered from the sun by closing curtains or shutters.
Regarding the environment, authorities are encouraging citizens to limit car travel and to favor public transport or cycling. Indeed, reducing pollutant emissions from vehicles helps to lower the concentration of ozone in the atmosphere and improve air quality for everyone.
The alert phase will remain in effect until weather conditions improve and ozone levels drop back below the alert thresholds. Citizens are invited to regularly check official websites, such as that of the Interregional Environment Agency, to follow the evolution of the situation in real time.