Snowfalls lead to peak-hour traffic delays

1 March 2006

BRUSSELS — Snowfalls were reported across much of the country overnight, leading to traffic delays during Wednesday morning’s rush hour.

The heaviest snowfalls were recorded in Wallonia, where up to 50cm was recorded. In Flanders, the biggest snowfalls were recorded in Limburg. Temperatures have fallen below zero degrees Celsius.

Snow and ice-clearing vehicles were deployed across much of the country, but slippery roads and poor visibility delayed traffic.

Only one lane was open on many motorways and motorists were also urged to observe caution on secondary roads. A higher number of accidents than normal were being recorded. Traffic jams were longer than average.

In Flanders, most of the problems were being reported in Flemish Brabant and in Limburg. The heaviest snowfalls were recorded in the region’s most easterly province, but most accidents were nevertheless recorded in Flemish Brabant.

In Wallonia, most problems were being reported in the provinces of Luxembourg, Liège and Wallonian Brabant, both on motorways and secondary roads.

Cars were sliding off roads and trucks were unable to climb various inclines. Most problems were being reported around the E25 between Aarlen and Liège.

Flemish motorists association VAB said its alarm number had been inundated with calls for assistance. It registered double the number of calls for assistance than normal.

Most calls were from motorists who couldn’t start their cars or from those involved in accidents. Due to the high humidity level, not only diesel but also petrol-driven cars were having starting problems.

VAB also had to respond to many calls for assistance from motorists whose cars had slipped off the road into canals.

Problems were also being reported with public transport on Wednesday. Flemish transport authority De Lijn said all buses in the province of Limburg were running 15 minutes late. In Flemish Brabant, there were delays in the area around Diest.

Subject: Belgian news