Amsterdam opens first cooling spots during heat wave

Amsterdam has opened its first cooling spots as temperatures rise, launching a pilot network of 12 public locations where residents can get water, rest and use toilets.

The city said the measure is part of its response to the current heat wave. Guardian reporting on Tuesday said shelters had opened in 12 Amsterdam locations, including a supermarket and a community farm, while municipal officials confirmed the pilot network on the same day.

What the city is offering

The cooling spots are meant to give people a place to escape the heat for a while and access basic facilities. Amsterdam said the sites offer water, rest and toilets.

The city has not yet published full public details on each location’s hours or access rules, and it is not clear whether the pilot is temporary or intended to become permanent.

Why it matters

The rollout comes as the Netherlands activates its national heatwave plan during a hot spell that is putting pressure on residents, especially vulnerable people.

Amsterdam officials have also been urging people to reduce indoor heat at home with simple measures, including keeping sunlight off windows and hanging curtains or sheets outside.

The idea reflects the reality of a city built to hold heat in winter and now coping with a spell of extreme temperatures.

What comes next

Officials may later expand the pilot beyond the initial 12 locations or publish more detailed access information. For now, the new cooling spots are Amsterdam’s first public attempt to create a citywide heat relief network during the current wave.