Unusually early heat in Netherlands gives way to cooler start of June

An early-season surge of tropical heat and record-breaking temperatures last week across the Netherlands is now shifting toward cooler, unsettled conditions, with forecasts pointing to a warmer and drier June ahead as the meteorological summer begins.

Last week brought unusually high temperatures for this time of year, with records broken and, in some regions, a full heat wave declared. The warmth arrived exceptionally early in the season. Since then, temperatures have dropped across many areas, and during the first week of the new month, no further heat is expected. With a southwesterly wind, daytime highs will generally reach around 20 degrees, which is typical for early June conditions.

A heat wave is defined as at least five consecutive days reaching 25 degrees or higher, including at least three days reaching 30 degrees or more.

Weather conditions in the coming week are expected to remain highly changeable. Nearly every day, showers or bands of rain are forecast to move across the country, and thunderstorms are also possible during some of these events. While this may disrupt outdoor plans, it is beneficial for nature, as recent dry conditions have pushed the precipitation deficit significantly above normal levels.

For mid-June, climate averages indicate typical maximum temperatures between 18 to 21 degrees, with average rainfall ranging from 17 to 25 mm over a 10-day period. Current weather models indicate conditions are likely to be both warmer and drier than these long-term averages, with a relatively high chance of sunny periods.

Long-term climate expectations suggest this pattern is becoming more common in future summers. Rising greenhouse gas emissions are driving higher temperatures and altering wind patterns. Forecasts indicate that easterly winds may become more frequent in coming summers, contributing to warmer and drier conditions than in the past.

By late June, typical temperatures range from 19 to 23 degrees. This period is also expected to be warmer and drier than average, supporting extended periods of pleasant outdoor weather.

Sun intensity in June can reach UV index 8, meaning sunburn can occur quickly without protection. The Netherlands is also approaching the longest day of the year on June 21, when sunrise will be at 5:20 a.m. and sunset at 10:05 p.m., allowing for long summer evenings. Overnight temperatures often remain mild, typically between 11 to 12 degrees.

For those sensitive to grass pollen, symptoms have already been persistent due to an early start to the grass flowering season. The combination of rain early in the month and warmth later on is expected to promote further growth, meaning pollen-related discomfort is likely to continue for some time.