The Netherlands is implementing a national heat plan starting at 10 a.m. today to protect vulnerable populations from the dangers of extreme heat. This initiative alerts healthcare providers to the specific risks faced by the elderly, sick, and pregnant women.

Across Europe, heat warnings are in effect, prompting measures such as free swimming pools, bans on outdoor work, and cooling advice.

While the heat beckons people to cool off in the water, swimming is discouraged at 88 locations in the Netherlands due to the presence of blue algae, Japanese oysters, and swimmer’s itch.

Recent data suggests that the National Heat Plan, first implemented in 2010, may be contributing to fewer deaths during periods of extreme heat compared to 25 years ago.

It is anticipated that Tuesday could potentially break the record as the warmest July 1st ever recorded. The average temperature in De Bilt is expected to be 25.8 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of 35 degrees Celsius.

To combat the harmful effects of the sun, “smear poles” offering free sunscreen are being installed at beaches, festivals, and amusement parks, promoting sun safety and discouraging tanning, especially given the high rate of skin cancer in the Netherlands.