You’ve probably heard it: it’s getting hot. Very warm. Today it will be about 30 to 32 degrees, tomorrow the temperature can rise to 37 degrees.
That is why the National Heat Plan will come into effect from 10:00 a.m. This plan is mainly aimed at vulnerable people, such as the elderly. Older people have more trouble keeping their body temperature under control. They are also less thirsty. Problems that can arise include fatigue, dehydration and heat stroke.
Rijkswaterstaat is also taking extra measures today and tomorrow. “From 10 a.m., we will take stranded road users to a safe place faster than usual,” said a spokesperson. “We don’t want people with these temperatures waiting too long along the highway, where there is no shade.” People with bad luck are taken to a gas station, where they are out of the sun and can buy food or drink.
According to Rijkswaterstaat, the chance of bad luck is also slightly greater in this heat. “The experience is that there are some more motor problems,” explains the spokesperson. “And trucks are more likely to get a blowout.”
Finally, Rijkswaterstaat also has some tips for when you hit the road. “Try to be extra alert, because your concentration can decrease with this weather. Take more water with you. Not only for yourself, but also for your passengers. And it may sound crazy, but an umbrella is also useful. It protects you against the sun, if you have to wait somewhere where there is no shade.”
The GGD Drenthe is also taking extra measures these days. Due to the heat, the opening hours of the corona test and vaccination locations have been adjusted until Wednesday. People who have an appointment in the afternoon will be called to move it to the morning.