A brief period of cooler weather and rain in the Netherlands is set to end as a heat wave returns later this week, with temperatures expected to reach up to 35 degrees Celsius in some areas.
Sunday brought scattered showers across the country, offering temporary relief after a prolonged dry spell. Temperatures remained between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.
Monday is forecast to start with lingering morning rain before clearing up, with similar mild temperatures in the afternoon.
The cool interlude will be short-lived as warm air from Southwestern Europe moves northeastward.
This air mass originates from regions where persistent dry conditions, heat, and strong winds are complicating efforts to control severe wildfires in countries like France and Spain.
Peak Heat Expected Midweek
Temperatures in the Netherlands are projected to peak on Wednesday, exceeding 30 degrees Celsius across large parts of the country.
Eastern and southeastern provinces could see highs of up to 35 degrees Celsius.
Coastal areas and the Wadden Islands will remain cooler, with temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius under bright, sunny skies.
The hot weather is expected to persist through Thursday, depending on the timing of a predicted wind shift.
While long-term forecasts indicate gradual cooling as the wind turns, warm air will remain nearby.
This could maintain a high probability of extended heat in southern provinces, potentially triggering a fourth regional heat wave this year.