The Netherlands is insufficiently prepared for crisis situations caused by extreme heat, according to the Netherlands Institute for Public Safety (NIPV) after a preliminary analysis of the heatwave in late June. The knowledge institute advocates for an international crisis plan for heat.

Researchers from the NIPV mapped out the situation surrounding the heatwave, during which the Netherlands issued its first-ever code red weather alarm for heat, based on media reports and information from security regions, among other sources. They observed that the heatwave put pressure on healthcare, infrastructure, businesses, emergency services, and education. And the measures taken varied widely between security regions and other crisis services.

“Heat should be viewed as a borderless crisis,” the researchers said. Not only because the heat affects the entire Netherlands, but also because it impacts diverse policy areas.

The Netherlands currently doesn’t have a national crisis plan for heat. According to the NIPV, the security regions need a national plan, which pays attention to vital infrastructure, education, employment, mobility, and public order.

A National Heat Plan does exist, but it focuses primarily on health risks. Approximately half of municipalities also have a local heat plan.

The security regions must also further develop their role during extreme heat, said the NIPV. “There is a need for clearer contingency plans, joint coordination between regions and partners, and more insight into the effectiveness of measures such as cooling areas, adjusted working hours, heat protocols for infrastructure, and extra attention for vulnerable groups.”

During the heatwave, the mercury rose to over 39 degrees in Limburg – the hottest it has ever been in the Netherlands in the month of June.

The NIPV warns that the Netherlands will face heat crises more frequently due to climate change. If it does not prepare better, “the societal consequences of extreme heat are expected to increase further.”