Weather warnings issued as temperatures set to hit 35C

The national heat plan has been activated for the second time this summer as temperatures are set to reach between 30C and 35C in most parts of the Netherlands.

The meteorological office KNMI has issued code yellow warnings for the inland provinces of Overijssel, Gelderland, Noord-Brabant and Limburg, for Wednesday, and Thursday and Friday.

Temperatures are due to peak at 35C on Wednesday before falling slightly to around 32C on Thursday. On Saturday there will be a brief respite, with maximum temperatures of 25C, but new highs of 33C are forecast for Monday.

A lack of wind will make the heat feel more intense and temperatures will remain high at night, close to 20C in most parts of the country. Conditions will be cooler on the Wadden Islands, with a maximum temperature of 24C.

The national heat plan is invoked if there is a serious risk of temperatures above 27C for four days or longer.

It includes advice to pay extra attention to vulnerable people, drink more water to stay cool and be aware that medicines may work differently in warm conditions.

Last month the KNMI issued a red alert for heat for the first time. Schools and universities were closed, work was suspended on building sites and some supermarkets cancelled home deliveries.