The Netherlands is under code orange for extreme heat, with temperatures expected to soar as high as 38 degrees Celsius in the south. A national heat plan is in effect, alerting care providers to the dangers for vulnerable populations and advising precautions for road users.

France is experiencing even more severe conditions, with code red declared in several central regions, indicating an extreme heat wave with significant public health impacts.

The extreme heat has also prompted adjustments to national events in the Netherlands. The national commemoration of the slavery past in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark has been moved to an earlier time to mitigate the impact of the heat on participants. Extra shaded areas, seating, and water distribution will also be provided.

Elsewhere, free sunscreen is being offered at beaches, festivals, and amusement parks, while authorities are warning about the dangers of swimming in certain locations due to blue algae, Japanese oysters, and swimmer’s itch.

Data suggests that heat measures, such as the National Heat Plan implemented in 2010, may be contributing to a decrease in heat-related fatalities compared to previous years.