Code Red in Zoetermeer: What Does That Mean for You?

Temperatures will remain high over the next few days, and a Code Red has been issued for Friday. Heat can lead to health problems, especially among the elderly, young children, people with underlying health conditions, and pets. Below, you can read about what Code Red means for you and the city. 

  • Stay cool and look out for each other—how do you do that?
  • Blue-green algae in Noord Aa, swimming advisory: do not swim
  • Veterans Day has been canceled for Saturday
  • Updated Waste Pickup and Drop-off Times
  • Outdoor work has been suspended due to the heat
  • Want to learn more about how to cope with heat and Code Red/Orange alerts?

Together, let’s keep Zoetermeer cool. Drink plenty of water, find ways to stay cool, and look out for one another a little extra these days.

Stay cool and look out for each other—how do you do that?

A Code Red has been issued for Zoetermeer due to the ongoing heat. It will remain very hot over the next few days. Heat can lead to health problems, especially among the elderly, young children, people with underlying health conditions, and pets. That is why it is important to take good care of yourself and each other. 

Drink enough water

  • In hot weather, your body loses more fluid than usual. So don't wait until you're thirsty—drink water regularly throughout the day.
  • There are fifteen public drinking water stations in Zoetermeer where you can fill your bottle for free (https://drinkwaterpunten.nl/gemeente/zoetermeer). This way, you can stay properly hydrated even when you're on the go. 
  • Publicly accessible locations are also asked to provide water if possible. 

Keep your home as cool as possible

  • Try to keep your home as cool as possible during the day by keeping windows, doors, and curtains closed. Don't open the windows until it cools down outside.
  • In addition, avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day and stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. 
  • And be sure to apply plenty of high-SPF sunscreen if you do end up working or spending time in the sun.
  • Are you able to keep your home comfortably cool? If so, see if you can help a neighbor, friend, or family member who’s having a harder time doing so. A cup of coffee, a glass of water, or a place to cool off for a bit can make a big difference on hot days.

Beat the Heat

  • Need to cool off? The city parks and recreational areas in Zoetermeer offer plenty of shaded spots. It’s often more pleasant to be surrounded by greenery than among concrete and asphalt. For example, you can visit the Binnenpark, Floriadepark, Westerpark, Burgemeester Hoekstrapark, Bentwoud, De Balij, and Buytenpark.
  • There are also places indoors where you can escape the heat. Think of the library, the swimming pool, the movie theater, a supermarket, or the Forum Stadhuis.
  • Are you going swimming to cool off? Not all bodies of water (including swimming areas) are supervised. So it’s best to go with someone else and keep a close eye on each other.
  • If you're having trouble finding a cool place on your own, don't hesitate to ask people around you for tips and help. 

Look out for one another

  • Not everyone is able to protect themselves effectively from the heat. Older adults, people with health issues, and those living alone are often at greater risk. A phone call, a text message, or a quick visit can make all the difference.
  • Ask how they're doing, whether they're drinking enough, and if they need any help. Especially on hot days, small gestures can make a big difference.

Don't forget about children and pets

  • Children and animals are especially vulnerable on hot days. Therefore, never leave them in a parked car, not even for a few minutes. 
  • In addition, always make sure there is plenty of drinking water, shade, and ways to stay cool.

Blue-green algae in Noord Aa, swimming advisory: do not swim

Blue-green algae Noord Aa found in the Noord Aa . As a result, a swimming advisory has been issued for:

  • Noord Aa , Zoetermeer
  • Noord Aa , Zoetermeer
  • Noord Aa , Zoetermeer

Blue-green algae are not algae but bacteria. Most species are blue-green in color. Blue-green algae produce toxic substances. These are harmful to humans and animals. Common symptoms include skin rashes, headaches, fever, and gastrointestinal problems. Young children are more likely to be affected because they often swallow some water while swimming. 

For more information about blue-green algae, visit www.zoetermeer.nl/blauwalgen
. For more information about the swimming advisory, visit www.zwemwater.nl.

Oak Processionary Caterpillar

The oak processionary caterpillar is also active in this area. This year, it is causing more problems than in previous years. The hairs on these caterpillars can cause health problems. For more information—such as what to do if you experience symptoms—visitGGD Leefomgeving - Oak Processionary Caterpillars at. 

At locations where caterpillars have been found, the nests are removed. Visitors are informed on-site via warning signs.

Veterans Day has been canceled for Saturday

Veterans’ Day in Zoetermeer has been canceled for Saturday, June 27. The municipality has decided to cancel the event because very high temperatures are also expected on Saturday. Under these weather conditions, prolonged outdoor activities are not recommended. This applies not only to visitors and participants, but also to the many people who help set up and run the event, such as vendors, tent erectors, volunteers, traffic controllers, and emergency services.

More info: https://www.zoetermeer.nl/veteranendag-2026-in-zoetermeer-afgelast

Updated Waste Pickup and Drop-off Times

Due to the heat, we will be picking up your trash extra early over the next few days. You can put your trash bin out by the roadside as early as 10:00 p.m. the night before. We’ll make sure it’s emptied properly.

In addition, the self-drop-off center closes at 2:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Please keep this in mind if you plan to drop off bulky waste.

Outdoor work has been suspended due to the heat

On Friday, June 26, all work in public spaces will be suspended due to a Code Red alert. This applies to both Zoetermeer municipal employees and contractors working for the City of Zoetermeer. 

Areas where work has already been done are left in a safe condition.
Work will continue in the event of malfunctions or emergencies.

Since there will be no work this Friday, this may cause delays in projects. We appreciate your understanding.

Want to learn more about how to cope with heat and Code Red/Orange alerts?