Significant rainfall is expected again on Tuesday in Western Flanders' flood-affected Westhoek area, following a brief lull.
The situation is being closely monitored, especially with the forecast of gusts of wind over the floodplains of the Yser basin.
On Monday, the primary focus was on directing the water towards the sea. While the night from Monday to Tuesday was predicted to stay dry, rainfall is forecasted for Tuesday morning.
However, there was no clear estimation of the intensity of the incoming rainfall. According to the most pessimistic model, it could measure up to 30l/m2.
On Monday, Westhoek firefighters concentrated on moving the water towards the sea. The water flow in smaller streams was as fast as that of the Yser. However, in certain areas, the water could be seen stagnating or even rising slightly. Still, water managers did not anticipate the peaks witnessed in recent days.
The efforts taken have already helped direct a significant amount of water towards the North Sea. Such flow volumes have never been achieved before, firefighters said. The pumps deployed make a real difference, not only in terms of evacuating water, but also as they allow water discharge around the clock, the firefighters explained.
Action has also been taken to mitigate inconvenience and avoid further damage. For instance, bridges have been used to rescue animals and people in homes surrounded by water. In addition, sand bags have been stacked.
On Monday, the production of these bags was shifted from Poperinge to the Lombardsijde military base (Nieuport).
By early morning on Tuesday, the military are expected to have filled at least a tonne of sand bags.
