The National Heat Plan has been issued by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). It will take effect in Limburg, North Brabant, Gelderland and Overijssel on Wednesday. The remaining provinces will be added on Thursday, the institute said.
The heat plan is activated when the KNMI forecasts temperatures of 27C or higher for four consecutive days. Friday is expected to be the hottest day of the week, with temperatures reaching up to 35C. In the southeast and east, the Heat Intensity Index could reach level 9.
According to the KNMI, conditions will start to improve from Saturday, with “gradual cooling, more cloud cover, and possibly occasional showers”.
The KNMI introduced the Heat Intensity Index in early June. The indicator is designed to help people assess how uncomfortable the heat may be and whether they should adjust their activities. The index is based on a combination of temperature, humidity, wind and solar radiation.
The RIVM introduced the heat plan to raise awareness among people who care for vulnerable groups. These groups include older people and young children. The institute advises people to drink plenty of fluids, avoid going outside during the hottest parts of the day, and keep their homes cool.
This is the fourth time the heat plan has been activated this year. The first activation came in mid-June, when temperatures above 35C were forecast across the country.
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