As the first week of April 2025 unfolds, the weather across the Netherlands is shaping up to be a mix of sunshine and cooler temperatures, creating a typical spring atmosphere. On Sunday, April 6, temperatures peaked at a comfortable 13 degrees Celsius, a standard reading for this time of year, according to meteorologists.
The week begins with clear skies and plenty of sunshine, which is expected to continue into Monday, April 7. Afternoon temperatures will rise to approximately 10 degrees Celsius in the northern regions and reach over 14 degrees Celsius in the southeast. A weak to moderate wind from the northeast will keep the air feeling a bit chillier than the actual temperature, making it advisable for residents to dress warmly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
However, as the week progresses, changes are on the horizon. Starting Tuesday, April 8, more clouds will begin to drift in from the North Sea, signaling a shift in the weather pattern. Despite the increased cloud cover, the sun is still expected to make regular appearances, and temperatures will remain relatively stable, hovering between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius until Thursday, April 10. This consistency in temperature is a welcome sign for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities.
Looking ahead to the weekend of April 12-13, the forecast predicts a warming trend with maximum temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. While it may not be ideal for those hoping to enjoy a sunny terrace, the anticipated showers could provide much-needed rain for the environment, which has been suffering from a significant lack of moisture.
Indeed, the dry weather has raised concerns among hay fever sufferers, as pollen levels remain high due to the lack of rainfall. The dry conditions have also led to an increased risk of nature and forest fires, with several such incidents reported in March 2025. According to weather experts, the relative humidity reached a maximum of 60% on Sunday, April 6, but typically hovers just above 30% during the day, creating a very dry atmosphere.
Moreover, the recent weather patterns can be attributed to a significant cold air outbreak originating from the North Pole, which has influenced temperatures across Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe. This sudden change in temperature is linked to a phenomenon known as sudden stratospheric warming, which occurred in early March. The effects of this warming have trickled down to the troposphere, altering pressure distributions and leading to the current weather conditions.
Meteorologist Berend van Straaten noted, "The coming week will be delightful spring weather, where we expect to see a rise in temperatures on Monday, already a degree higher than the previous days." This forecast brings hope for those eager to spend time outdoors as the weather continues to improve.
Despite the sunny outlook, the dry conditions have raised alarms for environmentalists and meteorologists alike. The lack of rainfall has led to a precipitation deficit of 48 millimeters from January 1 to March 31, 2025, which is particularly concerning given the record dryness of March. This has made the natural environment increasingly vulnerable to fire, with dozens of nature fires reported in recent weeks.
As the week progresses, the wind is expected to shift direction, bringing in milder air from the south by Friday, April 11. This change could lead to a more comfortable weekend, although residents should remain vigilant about the potential for showers on Sunday, April 13. These showers could be a blessing for the parched earth, providing much-needed moisture to the soil.
In summary, the first week of April sees a continuation of pleasant spring weather, with temperatures gradually rising and plenty of sunshine to enjoy. However, the dry conditions pose challenges for both allergy sufferers and the natural environment, highlighting the need for rain as the season progresses. As the week unfolds, residents are encouraged to enjoy the sunny days while keeping an eye on the changing weather patterns that may bring relief in the form of rain.
