Netherlands heatwave spurs free cooling at museums and Helmond market

Amid a severe heatwave that prompted a red‑code warning across the Netherlands, numerous public venues opened their doors for free cooling. Museums such as the Design Museum in ’s‑Hertogenbosch, the Stedelijk Museum in Breda and the Fotomuseum in Rotterdam offered air‑conditioned spaces at no charge, encouraging residents to seek refuge from high temperatures. Climate Alliance Netherlands called for extended hours, especially in the late afternoon and weekends, to maximise relief.

In Helmond, the weekly Saturday market on Ameidewal stayed open despite many towns cancelling their markets. Vendor Yasir of Pijnenburg Groenten en Fruit sold chilled cherries and strawberries, noting, "Why would it not be a market?" The stall provided free ice‑cream to customers and used direct cooling to keep fruit fresh throughout the day. Visitors praised the availability of fruit and the cooling treats during the extreme heat.