Nationwide Heat Plan in effect from Thursday as temperatures soar in Netherlands

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has announced that a National Heat Plan will be activated nationwide from Thursday, after consultations with the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) about the expected warm weather.

The coming days are expected to bring temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, with the KNMI forecasting highs of up to 35 degrees on Friday and Monday. Weeronline had also warned people to expect disruption due to heat stress. The KNMI also announced today that it has issued a code yellow warning for Thursday and Friday across the Netherlands, with the exception of the Wadden Islands. Forecasters warn of persistent warm conditions combined with high humidity and warm nights.

Under the National Heat Plan, caregivers and healthcare professionals are urged to pay extra attention to vulnerable groups, including elderly people and small children. The RIVM recommends providing easy access to drinking water, limiting outdoor activities to the cooler parts of the day, and taking measures to keep indoor spaces as cool as possible.

The greatest concern is for people aged 75 and over, who often have more difficulty regulating body temperature and may not feel thirsty as quickly. Other groups considered especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat include people with chronic health conditions, those living on the streets, and young children.

The National Heat Plan comes into effect when the KNMI predicts at least four straight days with temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius or above. The RIVM warns that prolonged heat can lead to fatigue, headaches, and reduced concentration, while also increasing the risk of more severe conditions such as dehydration and heatstroke.

The National Heat Plan was most recently activated in mid-August of last year.