The poor weather that has been forecast for the forthcoming weekend has led to the cancellation of the traditional Carnival Dip in the sea off the West Flemish coastal resort of Blankenberge. The swim in the cold water of the North Sea usually marks the end of Blankenberge’s annual carnival. However, the Mayor of Blankenberge Björn Prasse (local list) says that given the weather forecast “the risk to those taking part would be too great”.
Poor weather forecast for the weekend causes the cancellation of Blankenberge’s Carnival Dip
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In the past the carnival in Blankenberge has been held in freezing temperatures and when it was snowing. However, this year the participants in the carnival will not be jumping into the see in their outfits.
Mayor Prasse told VRT News that in agreement with the Coast Guard Service we have decided to cancel the dip”.
Too close to pier
“The is a forecast is for strong westerly winds with gusts of up to 7 Beaufort. A strong current coincides with spring tide, which means that it will be much stronger than usual. People in the water could quickly drift towards the pier and that would be very dangerous.”
“The high winds and the spring tide also mean that the sea will be in much closer to the sea front than would normally be the case”.
“Under these conditions, it would even be difficult for the rescue services' boats and jet skis to assist the swimmers”.
In recent years, been 200 participants registered to take part in the carnival dip.
Mayor Prasse told VRT News that this year a similar number of carnival-goers had registered. “The Dip is a fun way to end the carnival season. Traditionally, it is meant to wash away the carnival. It is a pity that it cannot take place, but safety comes first".