Belgium is a small country located in Western Europe, known for its picturesque cities, delicious chocolate, and famous beers. But what about the weather? One question that is often asked is, does it snow in Belgium?
In this post, we will take a closer look at the country’s climate and explore the chances of experiencing a white Christmas or a winter wonderland in Belgium.
Does It Snow In Belgium?
Yes, it does snow in Belgium. The country has a temperate maritime climate, meaning that it generally experiences mild winters with some occasional snowfall.
The coastal areas tend to have milder temperatures and less snow compared to the inland regions.
It can snow up to 5 inches in Belgium, but due to the climate, the snow doesn’t stay on the ground for long.
The average temperature in winter is around 0°C (32°F), and snowfall can occur from December to March, with the heaviest snowfall usually happening in January and February.
However, the amount of snowfall can vary greatly from year to year and even within the country. Some years, there may be very little snow, while other years, the country may experience heavy snowfall and even blizzards.
How Often Does It Snow In Belgium?
The frequency of snowfall in Belgium can vary greatly depending on the location and the year.
On average, snowfall can happen around once or twice a month in the winter months, from December to February. Coastal areas tend to have less frequent snowfall compared to inland regions.
In some years, there may be very little snowfall, while in other years, there may be more frequent and heavy snowfall.
Overall, it’s not uncommon to have some snowfall in Belgium during the winter months, but it’s not a guarantee either. Some years may have more snow than others.
When Does it Snow In Belgium?
The answer to this question largely depends on what part of Belgium you are talking about. For the most part, the higher elevations in the country see the most snowfall while the lower-lying areas generally have less snow.
The Belgian Ardennes, which are located in the southeast of the country, are home to some of the highest mountains in Belgium and therefore sees the most snowfall. This area generally has a cold climate and sees snowfall from December to March.
The most common time of year for snow in Belgium is from December to February. However, snowfall can occur any time between November and April. The average snowfall in Belgium is around 5 inches per year.
On the other hand, areas like Brussels rarely see any snowfall at all. The average winter temperature in Brussels is around freezing point, but it rarely goes below this. This means that any snow that does fall usually does not stay on the ground for very long.
What Is the Climate Like in Belgium?
Belgium has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and changeable weather. The country is located in Western Europe, and its climate is influenced by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
The coastal areas tend to have milder temperatures compared to the inland regions, with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 7 °C (41 to 45 °F) in the summer and 0 to 2 °C (32 to 36 °F) in the winter.
Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and November. Belgium generally experiences moderate rainfall and cloudy weather throughout the year, with occasional sunny spells.
The summer months can have some pleasant and sunny days, but it’s not uncommon to have rainy days as well. Winters are generally mild, with occasional snowfall and frost.
Overall, the climate of Belgium is generally considered moderate and changeable, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
What Are Some Popular Things to Do in Belgium During Winter?
There are many things to do in Belgium during the winter months; here are a few suggestions:
Christmas Markets
Belgium is home to many charming Christmas markets, where you can find unique gifts, delicious food, and festive atmosphere. Some of the most famous markets are located in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent.
Skating
There are several outdoor ice skating rinks in Belgium that open during the winter, such as the Grand Place in Brussels, and the rink at the Flanders Expo in Ghent.
Skiing
There are several ski resorts located in the Ardennes region of Belgium, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports.
Visit a Brewery
Belgium is famous for its beers and many breweries offer tours and tastings. Visiting a brewery during the winter is a great way to warm up and learn more about the country’s rich brewing tradition.
Visit Museums
Belgium has a rich cultural heritage and many museums are open during the winter months. Some popular museums include the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, the Magritte Museum in Brussels, and the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres.
Relax in a Thermal Spa
Belgium has several thermal spas where you can relax and unwind during the winter months. Some popular options include the Thermae Boetfort in Brussels, the Thermae 2000 in Valkenburg, and the Thermae Grimbergen.
Take a Walk in the Nature
Belgium has many beautiful parks and natural areas where you can take a walk during the winter. Some popular options include the Ardennes, Hoge Kempen National Park, and the Flemish Ardennes.
Conclusion
Overall, Belgium is not a country that experiences a lot of snow. However, this does not mean that it never snows in Belgium. There are certain parts of the country, particularly in the Ardennes region, that experience snowfall every year.
So if you’re planning a trip to Belgium and hoping to see some snow, you’ll need to be strategic about when and where you go.
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