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Code Orange Heat Warning Triggers Service Changes as 112 Calls Surge in Region

The KNMI's extreme-heat alert has forced transport operators and authorities to change schedules to protect workers and vulnerable people.

Overview

  • The KNMI issued a code orange heat warning that takes effect Wednesday at 12:00, warning of several days with temperatures at or above 34°C and elevated health risks.
  • Rijkswaterstaat has expanded its hitteprotocol to six provinces to move stranded road users quickly to shaded, serviced locations and reduce time on hot road surfaces.
  • Uiterwaarde has suspended ten pedestrian and bicycle ferry crossings from Wednesday through Friday to protect volunteer crews from prolonged heat exposure.
  • Emergency services have been busier than usual with a cluster of 112 incidents that include multiple traffic collisions, the death of a minor cyclist in Haalderen, and the arrest of a 35-year-old Maurik man on suspicion of driving under the influence after two officers were hit in Tiel.
  • Police have ruled the deaths found in Hattem and at a Ukraine reception centre in Doesburg non-criminal, and local bodies such as schools, event organisers and waste collectors are adjusting timetables to reduce heat harm and strain on responders.