Has the Netherlands Experienced Its First Official Heatwave in Three Years?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On July 2, the Netherlands faced its first official heat wave in three years, prompting urgent alerts from the KNMI. With temperatures soaring over 30 degrees Celsius, the impact on health and safety is significant, especially for vulnerable populations. What does this mean for the country as it grapples with extreme weather conditions?
Key Takeaways
- The Netherlands is experiencing its first official heat wave in three years.
- The temperature has surpassed 30 degrees Celsius for five consecutive days.
- An orange code alert has been issued for extreme heat in the southeastern provinces.
- Health risks are particularly high for older adults and vulnerable individuals.
- Severe thunderstorms are also predicted in the eastern regions.
The Hague, July 2 (NationPress) The Netherlands has officially encountered its first heat wave in three years, leading the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) to issue an orange code alert for extreme heat across the southeastern regions of the country.
The KNMI declared early Wednesday that temperatures at De Bilt, the national reference weather station situated in the province of Utrecht, surpassed 30 degrees Celsius at 11:20 am local time (0920 GMT). This signifies the fifth consecutive day of elevated temperatures, thus officially qualifying as a national heat wave.
This event marks the 31st official heat wave in the Netherlands since the commencement of national temperature records in 1901. The record for the longest heat wave in De Bilt is held at 18 days, occurring from July 29 to August 15 in 1975.
According to KNMI standards, a national heat wave is declared when temperatures in De Bilt reach at least 25 degrees Celsius for five consecutive days, with a minimum of three of those days exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
In addition, the KNMI has issued an orange alert for extreme heat in the southeastern provinces of North Brabant, Limburg, and Gelderland.
The agency cautions about health risks, especially for senior citizens and vulnerable populations, including dehydration and heat exhaustion. In the remaining parts of the country, a yellow code remains active, indicating potentially dangerous, albeit less severe, conditions.
Alongside the heat, the KNMI issued another orange alert on Wednesday afternoon for severe thunderstorms anticipated in the eastern regions of the country.
The agency warns of considerable disruptions to traffic, outdoor activities, and events. There is also a risk of fires and property damage due to lightning strikes.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that the recent heat wave in the Netherlands not only reflects changing climate patterns but also raises essential questions about public health and safety. The KNMI's alerts highlight the urgency for communities to prepare and respond to extreme weather events. Our commitment to providing accurate information ensures that the public is well-informed and equipped to handle the challenges posed by such conditions.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes a national heat wave in the Netherlands?
According to KNMI guidelines, a national heat wave is declared when temperatures in De Bilt reach at least 25 degrees Celsius for five consecutive days, with at least three days exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
What regions are under the orange code alert?
The orange code alert for extreme heat is in effect for the southeastern provinces of North Brabant, Limburg, and Gelderland.
What health risks are associated with the heat wave?
Health risks include dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly affecting older adults and vulnerable individuals.
What other warnings has the KNMI issued?
In addition to the heat wave, the KNMI has also issued an orange alert for severe thunderstorms expected in the eastern part of the country.
How can individuals prepare for extreme heat?
Individuals should stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
