With the temperatures soaring to tropical heights in the Netherlands, and no sign of rain, the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has issued a code orange warning for the whole of the Netherlands, with the exception of the Wadden area.
Code orange is issued when temperatures in the country reach above 30C for three days in a row and temperatures don’t cool down past 18C during the night. For the coming days, temperatures above 30C are expected in the Netherlands, which would mean the 25th heatwave the country has experienced since temperature measurements began in 1901.
In order to be prepared for the hot weather in the Netherlands, the KNMI advises referring to the National Heat Plan. The plan advises taking extra care of those vulnerable to the heat, as well as limiting physical activity and drinking enough water, amongst other things.
In addition to the heat, there is also a possibility of smog due to a higher concentration of ozone. The smog can lead to respiratory complaints, such as coughing, shortness of breath, asthma exacerbation and the deterioration of lung function.
Those who are sensitive to smog are advised by the Netherlands National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) to stay indoors and to limit strenuous activity. The air is especially polluted in the early morning and afternoon.