Climate

The Belgian coast has a temperate maritime climate, characterised by mild winters, cool summers, and evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year. Within Flanders, the coastal region also has its own microclimate. The average annual temperature (1991–2020) is approximately 10.5 °C (Klimaatatlas, Ostend reference). The warmest months are July and August, with average maximum temperatures exceeding 21 °C. Alongside June, this period is also the sunniest. The total annual sunshine duration is around 1,840 hours, compared to 1,610 hours in Uccle (the national reference). The coastal region is generally drier than the inland areas, receiving approximately 801 mm of annual precipitation (Ostend) compared to 831 mm inland (Uccle). Western coastal municipalities tend to be drier than those in the east, with De Panne receiving around 776 mm of annual rainfall and Knokke-Heist 871 mm.

Ongoing climate change is disrupting this microclimate, leading to more extreme weather conditions and rising temperatures in the long term (by 2100). Based on the most extreme climate scenario in the latest IPCC Climate Report (2023), the average annual temperature at the coast (Ostend reference) is expected to reach nearly 16 °C by 2100. In addition to rising temperatures, precipitation patterns are also shifting. Summers are becoming drier, while winters are becoming wetter, with more frequent episodes of intense rainfall. These changes have significant implications for flood-prone areas, as well as key economic sectors such as tourism and agriculture. The smallest projected changes in climate relate to wind speed, which is expected to reach an average of 6.3 m/s in winter by 2100, compared to 5.8 m/s today.

For more detailed information, statistical data, and maps on climate, the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) has developed the Climate Portal (“Klimaatportaal”). This platform allows users to visualise and download various climate change effects, such as drought, heat, sea-level rise, and flooding. Additional information and reference material on this topic can also be found in KustINzicht 2025.