Netherlands issues 1st-ever code red warning for extreme heat

The Netherlands has issued its highest weather alert for extreme heat for the first time, with temperatures expected to climb as high as 40°C (104°F), according to the Dutch weather service.

The red warning, known as code red, will take effect as Friday begins across large parts of the country. The northern Netherlands and the province of Zeeland remain under a code orange warning, which is one level lower.

KNMI, the national weather service, said the combination of high temperatures and humidity will create oppressive heat that can cause health problems for anyone, including dehydration, overheating and heat stroke.

Temperatures on Friday are expected to reach 33 to 36°C (91 to 97°F) in the north and west, and 36 to 39°C (97 to 102°F) farther inland. KNMI said temperatures could locally reach 40°C (104°F), while coastal areas are expected to become slightly less hot later in the day as wind comes in from the sea.

The heat is also expected to continue into Saturday, with temperatures of 33 to 36°C (91 to 97°F) forecast across the country.

Overnight temperatures will remain unusually high. Parts of the north are expected to cool to 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F) during the night to Friday, but central and southern areas will remain between 20 and 23°C (68 to 73°F). In cities, temperatures may not fall below 23 to 25°C (73 to 77°F).

The Dutch public health institute, RIVM, has activated the National Heat Plan until at least Saturday. KNMI said the heat index in the afternoon will reach 9 to 10, indicating very strong heat stress.

The warning comes as a severe heatwave continues to affect parts of Europe, where records have been broken in France, the United Kingdom and Spain. Heat warnings are also continuing for Germany, the Balkans and Poland.