In Belgium, three official heatwaves were recorded over the past three summer months. The average temperature of the summer of 2026 will likely become the highest ever recorded in Belgium since observations began in 1833, with an average temperature of 20,3 °C. Currently, 2026 is ahead of the previous record from 2018, when the average temperature of the meteorological summer was 19,9 °C.
Temperatures are a major factor in the choices people make regarding their holidays and leisure time. On very hot days, people seek relief from the heat. Holiday choices are also influenced, with trends like #Coolcation emerging for heat-avoiders. The extreme summer has both winners and losers if we look purely at visitor numbers. For instance, swimming pools and water attractions can recoup their investments over many more days. Conversely, many day attractions without special cooling facilities faced declining visitor numbers. Water sports were also affected by the drought during this period. Various rivers were no longer suitable for boats and small water sports.
Explanation of leisure360
Many more 'tropical' and 'warm' days
The number of tropical days, on which the temperature reaches at least 30 °C, currently stands at 15 days (for the period from June 1 to August 24), or three times the normal number of 5 days. This places 2026 in second place, behind the record year of 1976 with 18 days.
The number of days on which the temperature reached at least 25 °C currently stands at 44, compared to a normal value of 24 days. This places 2026 in third place, after 1947 (47 days) and 1976 (45 days).
Source and more information: www.meteo.be