Overview
- The KNMI issued a national code rood for extreme heat after measurements showed record or near‑record warm nights and daytime highs well into the mid‑30s and locally approaching 40°C.
- Municipalities and public bodies responded by withdrawing permits and closing services, including RDW vehicle inspection sites, some outdoor pools, libraries and multiple scheduled events to protect staff and visitors.
- Major events balanced closure and adaptation: Defqon.1 barred day‑ticket holders and cut attendance by about 15,000 per day, while stadium shows and festivals stayed open with extra water points, sunscreen, shade and misting plans.
- Transport operators warned of heat‑related faults and ran precautionary reduced services on vulnerable routes, with RET and the NS reporting targeted outages or fewer trains and bus operators adjusting work practices for safety.
- Humanitarian groups said vulnerable people are at urgent risk, reporting dozens of asylum seekers waiting outside Ter Apel in dangerous heat and delivering water, tents and shade as authorities face pressure to provide cool shelter before cooler weather arrives.