Hasselt ( Brussels Morning Newspaper): On January 6th, 2025, water levels in the Demer River rose beyond the threshold, with authorities thus having issued an alert which covers the territories surrounding the golf site in Hasselt.
As a result of high water levels, there is always a probability of experiencing a flood, which is why local authorities are always on the lookout for the phenomenon. This comes after continued downpours in the past days have caused a rise in the river’s water level; as a result, action is taken to prevent harm and loss of property.
The water level of the Demer River has still risen beyond the warning limits as of January 6, 2025, and hazardous levels have been announced for the areas around the golf course in Hasselt. Law enforcement agencies are closely watching the development of the events and urging people to be ready to face floods. Civil defence has turned on its flood alert networks and is using coordination with local emergency departments to evaluate conditions. People within these regions should ensure they monitor the progress of the disaster and change their behaviour in regard to the instructions given by the authorities. The golf playing field of the Hasselt Golf Club has been closed in order to prevent the spreading of the virus among the members and employees. Moreover, the people living close to the shore are advised to have their possessions evacuated just in case the situation gets worse and all service to their aid if called for.
People have remained vigilant through updates from local meteorological services, which stress the fact that more rain could worsen the situation. The regional government has also initiated some initiatives for drainage in the problematic areas and has also worked with the agencies that deal with water levels. While managing risks is the priority and justifiable during this time, concern is drawn to the protection of communities from threats.
Historical context and Flood Management efforts
Demer River has varying water levels, especially during rainy or snow-melting seasons. Past flooding experiences have led authorities to develop flood prevention mechanisms in the region, such as levees and drainages, which are meant to minimise flood impacts given by rising waters. It also seeks to prevent effects on residential premises and recreational facilities due to unfavourable climate conditions.
Over the past few decades, global warming has made weather extremes worse, and this has caused increased cases of rainfall in Belgium. They have also highlighted the need for early flood risk mitigation plans, as well as public preparedness interventions. Local governments have been involved in raising public awareness of flood hazards and persuading occupants to devise and implement preparedness strategies.
In addition, extensions of investments in green infrastructure are considered in the course of the general approach to stormwater management. Such measures include developing green areas to control the rate of water infiltration into the main water source, such as the Demer. While the public authorities are keeping an eye on the current situation, they ensure that residents are aware of the current situation and developments concerning increased water levels in water reservoirs in Hasselt and other areas.
