Warmer, drier weather expected across Netherlands through early June
The Netherlands is heading into warmer, drier-than-normal weather for the rest of May and the first half of June, after a May that has already shown sharply contrasting spring conditions, according to weeronline's monthly outlook.
The month opened with summer-like warmth on May 1, when temperatures hit 22 to 25 degrees Celsius and outdoor terraces filled with people. Less than a week later, conditions turned markedly cooler, with highs dropping to 11 degrees and heavy coats coming back out. Even so, the first week of May still brought pleasant enough weather for sitting on terraces in shorts.
The coming week will open with changeable conditions, as areas of rain or showers cross the country each day. Temperatures will climb gradually, reaching 20 degrees again by Wednesday. From Thursday, the pattern is expected to stabilize, bringing a prolonged stretch of dry weather and plenty of sunshine. The chance of highs hitting 25 degrees will rise steadily.
Many people will welcome the warming trend, but it is unwelcome news for hay fever sufferers. Recent rainfall has given nature ample moisture, and the rising temperatures are sharply increasing pollen production. Grasses are now in full bloom, causing symptoms in a large group of people. Anyone sensitive to grass pollen should prepare for a tough period ahead.
The longer-range outlook for the final week of May indicates the highest probability of drier, warmer-than-normal weather. Highs at the end of May typically range from 18 to 21 degrees, so temperatures climbing above that level would create delightful conditions. The period is also likely to stay mostly dry and sunny, offering ideal opportunities for outdoor activities. People are urged not to forget sunscreen, as the sun's intensity can easily reach 5 or 6 at the end of May, leading to quick sunburn.
June is forecast to begin with the same drier, warmer-than-normal pattern. Highs will frequently exceed 20 degrees, and temperatures above 25 degrees are quite possible, at times making the heat feel unpleasant. Overnight lows will typically remain above 10 degrees, and evenings will cool more slowly because this is the month with the longest days of the year.
The first two weeks of June are also expected to run drier than normal. That could significantly raise precipitation deficits and place greater stress on nature. Such patterns are projected to become more common in the future as summers become progressively drier and warmer due to greenhouse gas emissions.
