It is expected on Friday evening that water from northern France will continue to reach West Flanders through various waterways and rivers. The biggest impact is not expected until early Saturday morning.
According to the governor, all possible precautions have been taken. For example, a second dam has been built in Staffel and sandbags are being distributed. In Izegem, new dams built on the buffer basin are doing their job to reduce flooding of the Mandel River. Additional pump capacity has been deployed at Huellebeek. The water level at Leie remains at an acceptable level and will continue to be monitored. All services remain on alert to intervene when necessary.
“Everything is currently being done to provide maximum protection for the local population,” says Governor Carl Decalloi. The next crisis meeting is scheduled for Saturday. Local residents are requested to take all possible precautions and prepare as best as possible. You are also asked to limit movements and avoid dangerous areas, as well as turn off gas, electricity and water if necessary and make sure mobile phones are charged.
The husband and son were evacuated
A man was evacuated from his home in Le Renge Friday night into Saturday. His house, located near Ijzier, was surrounded by water after the floods of the past few days. At night, the fire brigade evacuated him at his request, along with his son and pets.
The man’s house was already surrounded by water after heavy rains in recent days. On the night of Friday to Saturday, he decided to evacuate. The fire brigade was called.
The man lives near the Ijzier River, which has burst its banks due to heavy rains. Water levels also rose sharply last night. The fire brigade was eventually able to remove the residents from the house with a boat and a tractor. They can go to friends and family.
