Netherlands' towns battle extreme heat, protecting animals and residents

In Helmond, the city’s animal parks are coping with record temperatures. At Dierenpark De Warande, head of animal care Simone Boudewijns said animals are seeking shade, panting and lying down more often. The park added a new shelter, installed water baths and an automatic water trough, and monitors the animals closely, noting that no deaths have occurred despite the heat.

In the historic centre of Harderwijk, metal surfaces such as bins, car hoods and manhole covers can reach up to 80 °C, creating a pronounced urban‑heat‑island effect. The municipal council, represented by alderman Wilco Mazier, approved a green‑plan to replace many paved areas with trees, plants and shrubs. The initiative aims to cool the streets, increase biodiversity, improve rain‑water management and mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat for residents.