The KNMI weather bureau has issued a code yellow weather warning for the south and east of the country, warning that the temperature is likely to top 33C in some places.

On Monday the sun will break through the high cloud and it will be warm all day, although an evening sea breeze will provide some relief in the south west. Overnight it will remain warm, with the temperature barely dipping below 21C.

Tuesday will also have tropical temperatures with sunny spells and high cloud, and it could reach up to 36C in the far south. Cooler air will blow in later in the afternoon, the KNMI said.

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will be dry with sunny spells, but temperatures will remain the mid 20s. They will rise again to top 30C next weekend.

The KNMI long-range forecast is for cooler, more changeable weather into July, with 30% chance of rain.

The Dutch public health institute has invoked its ‘national heat plan’, because of the hot weather. ‘The hot weather brings risks for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, babies, people with chronic illnesses, obesity and living in social isolation,’ the RIVM said.

In practise the heat plan is a list of recommendations for dealing with the hot weather and a warning about the risks.

In particular, carers should make sure the frail elderly and young babies drink enough while the temperatures are high. Other recommendations include staying in the shadows as much as possible, avoiding alcohol and limiting physical exercise during the hottest parts of the day.