Heatwave causes hospital disruptions and health warnings in Belgium
A severe heatwave is affecting Belgium, causing hospital disruptions, health concerns and cancellations of public activities.
At AZ Sint-Lucas Hospital in Ghent, at least 50 planned operations were cancelled after an electronic patient record system failed. The problem was caused by an overheated server in Paris. Similar issues affected the University Hospital Antwerp (UZA), where appointments, admissions and procedures faced delays.
Both hospitals said emergency care and urgent operations continued as normal, while technicians worked to restore the systems.
Health authorities have also warned people about the risks of extreme heat. They urged extra caution, especially for young children, older people, pregnant women and those with health conditions. Officials said the heat expected on Friday and over the weekend would be exceptional and advised vulnerable people to avoid unnecessary activities if possible.
Temperatures in Belgium have already broken records. In Uccle, the previous daily record for 24 June, set in 1976, was exceeded as temperatures rose above 35°C. Forecasters warned that unusually warm nights could increase health risks because there is little chance for people to cool down.
The heatwave has disrupted daily life across the country. Some schools and childcare centres have closed, businesses have shortened working hours, and several outdoor events have been cancelled. Demand for fans and portable air conditioners has also surged, leaving many shops sold out.
Authorities have issued a yellow wildfire risk warning as dry conditions increase the chance of fires in natural areas.
The heatwave is part of a wider pattern across Europe, with temperatures approaching 40°C in countries including France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Climate researchers say human-caused climate change has intensified the current heatwave and raised temperatures in parts of Western Europe by as much as 4°C.
© BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND