Temperatures at De Bilt are expected to top 30 degrees on Wednesday, as the Netherlands prepares for another spell of hot weather.

Yesterday the Nationaal Hitteplan (nationwide heat plan) went into effect, with the government recommending drinking more water, tea or lemonade than usual and checking in on vulnerable neighbours.

Wednesday marks the second regional heatwave of the year. For an official heatwave, the temperature in De Bilt, near Utrecht, must exceed 25 degrees for at least five consecutive days, including three days above 30 degrees.

Weerplaza predicts Maastricht will top 36 degrees on Wednesday. It was already 25 degrees by 9.30am.

While it’s hot in the Netherlands, areas of Southern Europe are experiencing even higher temperatures. In some areas, temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees.

Paris is expected to see temperatures of over 35 degrees and heat warnings have been issued across much of Europe.

Wildfires have forced several hundred people near Madrid to evacuate their homes, with at least one fatality. Portugal is fending off three major wildfires are burning during 40-degree heat.

If you’re looking to take a dip to cool off, be sure to check the water quality. The ANP reports at least 280 swimming locations have received at least one safety warning this year, compared to 142 in the same period last year.