Hot weekend ahead for the Netherlands

Sunshine and high temperatures are expected for the Netherlands this weekend. Weerplaza expects many Dutch to head towards the beaches, and warns motorists to be ready for traffic jams - be sure to have drinking water and sunscreen in the car.

Friday will be very sunny with maximum temperatures between 23 and 27 degrees. And with only a weak to moderate wind, it is ideal weather to cool down in water, according to the weather service. But remember to stay hydrated and keep applying sunscreen, Weerplaza warns. On Thursday first aid posts in Hoek van Holland had to treat some 200 people after the combination of hot weather, sunshine and alcohol became too much for them.

"On Saturday undoubtedly even more people will head towards the beach", Weerplaza writes. Temperatures will rise to above 30 degrees, hitting tropical heat. Weerplaza warns that the roads towards the beaches along the North Sea will be especially busy. A number of road closures for maintenance will also cause traffic problems inland.

"Take into account a longer travel time. Make sure you have extra drinks with you. Road closures and extraordinary recreation traffic means you can be in the traffic for some time. Plan your trip well to avoid surprises", Raymond Klaassen, meteorologist at Weerplaza, warns.

Sunday will be more cloudy with a chance of thundershowers. The wind will fall away and temperatures will climb to a muggy 25 to 31 degrees. Sunday will be much more humid than the rest of the weekend.

On Thursday the Dutch Rescue Brigade warned swimmers that while the weather may be hot this weekend, the sea water is still very cold. Wear protective wetsuits and don't stay in the water too long to avoid hypothermia. And only go swimming where lifeguards are on duty, the Rescue Brigade warned.