Netherlands Heatwave: Red Code Activated for 40-Degree Temperatures

The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) issued a code red weather warning for eight Dutch provinces effective midnight on June 26, 2026. Temperatures are forecast to reach 40 degrees Celsius, prompting authorities to advise residents to seek cooling and avoid unnecessary travel.

Why was a code red issued for eight provinces?

The KNMI has designated the upcoming weather as benauwde hitte, or stifling heat, according to reporting from NU. This classification triggers a code red warning, the highest alert level, across eight provinces starting June 26, 2026.

Temperature forecasts indicate a severe spike in heat. AD.nl reports that temperatures are expected to climb as high as 40 degrees Celsius.

Which businesses and institutions are closing?

The extreme heat has led to the closure of several public and private entities on June 26, 2026. Omroep West reports that various schools will remain closed to protect students and staff from the temperature peaks.

Commercial attractions are also affected. Pretpark Drievliet announced it will stay closed on June 26, 2026, due to the heatwave, according to Omroep West.

What travel and safety warnings are in place?

Government agencies are urging the public to limit movement. Rijkswaterstaat has advised citizens to only take to the roads if it’s absolutely necessary, according to De Telegraaf.

Health and safety directives from the KNMI and NOS emphasize the need for immediate preventative measures. The KNMI’s guidance states that people should only go outside if it is necessary.

NOS reports that the primary directive for residents in the affected provinces is to seek cooling to avoid heat-related illness.