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Drought

Soil cracked by drought
Drought refers to a prolonged period of very little precipitation compared with normal rainfall levels. This can lead to water shortages. 

Risks and causes

Causes

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What can you do? 

BEFORE

  • Be economical with your water consumption: 
    • Take a shower instead of a bath.  
    • Collect rainwater. 
    • Limit watering in your garden. 
    • Use residual water for plants. 
    • Repair leaks quickly. 
    • Install water-saving devices and water-saving taps. 

DURING

  • Depending on the severity of the drought, a minister, governor or mayor may take anti-drought measures. Check with your local authorities. Examples of such measures are: 
    • A ban on car washing 
    • A ban on filling swimming pools and ponds 
    • A ban on watering in the garden 
    • A ban on spraying to clean streets, pavements, terraces, roofs, facades, etc. 
  • Limit your water consumption, especially during peak hours: from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the evening.  
  • Click on your residential zone for an overview of current measures: 

AFTER

  • Keep a close eye on your water consumption. Do not waste water. 

Impact and probability

The figures relating to probability and impact describe a considerable drought. The BNRA theoretically describes such a scenario as follows: 

  • A regional drought affects up to 3 provinces and lasts up to six months.  
  • The ground dries out and small local rivers dry up, but there are no long-term effects.  

How should you interpret these results? 

Within the BNRA, experts assessed three scenarios for each risk: considerable, major or extreme. On each page, you will find the results of the scenario with the highest score based on the combination of likelihood and impact. This does not mean that this scenario will occur or is the most likely. Read more here about how to correctly interpret the results.

 

Probability

Strong

Human impact

Very weak

Societal impact

Very weak

Environmental impact

Very weak

Financial impact

Very weak

What do the authorities do?

The regional authorities (Flemish Drought Commission and Walloon Crisis Cell on Drought) closely monitor the drought situation. They carry out assessments, monitor the availability of drinking water and advise governors and ministers on the measures to be taken. 

During a prolonged period of drought, a minister, governor or mayor may convene a drought consultation and impose various measures to limit (drinking) water consumption, both for individuals and businesses.