Storm Éowyn: How Was Belgium Affected?
Storm Éowyn brought dangerous winds and widespread disruption to Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom in January 2025. While the storm caused severe damage across the British Isles, Belgium faced a different set of weather risks, including heavy rain and possible local flooding.
The storm highlighted how a powerful weather system can affect several European countries in different ways.
Storm Éowyn Brings Dangerous Winds to Ireland and the UK
Storm Éowyn reached Ireland and the United Kingdom on January 24, 2025. Irish authorities issued red weather warnings, while parts of the UK also faced the highest level of warnings because of the risk posed by destructive winds.
Wind gusts reached around 183 km/h in parts of Ireland. The storm caused widespread power cuts, transport disruption and damage from falling trees.
Authorities urged people in the most affected areas to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
How Did Storm Éowyn Affect Belgium?
Belgium avoided the most destructive winds experienced in Ireland and the UK. However, the country was not entirely unaffected.
Rainfall was a key concern, particularly in parts of Flanders. The Flemish Environment Agency warned that local flooding was possible after prolonged rainfall.
On January 24, 2025, forecasts indicated that Limburg and Antwerp could receive between 25 and 40 litres of rain per square metre over the following 24 hours. Other Flemish provinces were expected to receive lower amounts.
The risk was increased by already saturated ground, which made it harder for the soil to absorb additional rainwater. Some waterways in Wallonia were also at risk of reaching alert levels.
Was Belgium at Risk of the Same Dangerous Winds?
No. Belgium did not face the same extreme storm winds forecast for Ireland and parts of the UK.
Belgian weather forecasts at the time pointed to weaker gusts, with speeds of up to around 60 km/h inland and 70 km/h along the coast.
Heavy rain and localised flooding were therefore more relevant concerns for Belgium than the destructive winds affecting the western British Isles.
What Should People in Belgium Do During Severe Weather?
When strong winds or heavy rain are forecast, residents should follow updates from the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium (RMI).
Practical precautions include securing loose objects on balconies and in gardens, avoiding flooded roads and staying away from rivers or other areas where water levels are rising.
Drivers should also adjust their speed to weather conditions and never drive through floodwater.
Storm Éowyn was most destructive in Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom, where powerful winds caused major disruption. Belgium experienced a less severe impact, but heavy rainfall still created a risk of local flooding.
For the latest Belgian weather alerts, residents should consult the official RMI forecast rather than relying on older storm reports.
