Netherlands and Belgium issue code‑red heat warnings as temperatures near 40 °C

The Dutch meteorological institute KNMI raised the alert from code orange to code red for large parts of the country on 25 June 2026, warning of temperatures up to 40 °C and heat‑related health risks such as dehydration, heat‑stroke and worsening air quality. The alert, the first code red issued for heat in the Netherlands, applies to eight provinces and triggers strict advice to avoid outdoor activity, stay hydrated and keep homes cool.

Belgian health authorities issued a similar warning for the weekend, urging vulnerable groups – the elderly, children, pregnant women and those with pre‑existing conditions – to limit exposure and to ensure adequate water and shade at events. They also warned of heightened ozone levels.

The extreme heat led to widespread operational changes: 51 schools of the De Haagse Scholen network and several other schools cancelled Friday lessons; the national rail service reduced frequencies and suspended some ferry services; sporting events such as the European Transplant Games, Honkbalweek Haarlem and local athletics meetings adjusted schedules, added water stations and provided shade. Municipalities opened cooling centres and advised residents to check on neighbours. The combined warnings affect millions of residents across the Netherlands and Belgium.