Drought

The Netherlands is facing continued drought, with little rain forecast for the rest of August and the national rainfall deficit expected to exceed 300 millimetres. Dry conditions are also affecting neighbouring countries, prompting measures to manage water shortages and transport disruptions.

Dutch sugar beet farmers are seeing major yield losses due to drought and heat, with similar problems in Germany and France. Falling groundwater levels, plant diseases, and limited irrigation are putting pressure on European sugar production.

Consumers in the Netherlands will face smaller and pricier fruit this autumn as drought across Europe reduces harvest volumes. Despite good flavour quality from high sugar levels, growers warn of hail damage, water shortages, and crop‑cooling challenges that could make 2026 a financially difficult year for many.

The Netherlands saw exceptionally little rainfall in July 2026, averaging just 12 millimeters nationwide, making it the second driest July since weather measurements began in 1906. Sunshine hours were unusually high, temperatures consistently warm, and only a few regions saw anything close to normal precipitation.

The Netherlands set a new temperature record for July 29 as De Bilt reached 31.7 degrees Celsius, breaking a historic mark set in 1948. Regional temperatures topped 35.2 degrees in the south, marking the ninth daily heat record of the year. Although cooler weather will arrive by the weekend, severe drought conditions persist nationwide, with meteorologists warning that light, continuous rain will be needed through late August to restore soil moisture levels.

The Netherlands has entered an official water‑shortage phase as river levels drop and ditches dry out. Authorities are preparing new measures, including adjusting river weirs and pumps, while urging residents to use drinking water consciously.

A sharp increase in Dutch wildfires highlights the impact of extreme weather cycles on national safety. While recent rain fueled vegetation growth, subsequent droughts have turned the landscape into a tinderbox, leading to record-breaking emergency interventions.