Netherlands reactivates heat plan as temperatures near 33C
The alert covers seven provinces, with UV index 6-7 and high temperatures expected to last into next week.
The Netherlands will reactivate the National Heat Plan on Saturday after forecasts showed temperatures in parts of the country could reach 30-33 degrees Celsius for several days. The measure applies to Zeeland, South Holland, North Brabant, Limburg, Utrecht, Gelderland, and Overijssel. The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, KNMI, also issued a yellow weather warning for the central and southern regions starting Saturday morning. KNMI said weekend temperatures will range from 30-32 degrees Celsius in the south and could spread early next week. RIVM warned that health risks rise for older people, young children, and people with chronic illnesses, especially as nights remain warm at 16-18 degrees Celsius. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water, keep homes cool, and protect their skin because the UV index is expected to be very high.