Tourists vacationing in southern Europe are facing a brutal heat wave over the coming days, with temperatures in parts of Spain and Greece expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The intense heat is set to persist through much of the week, making outdoor activities and sightseeing uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Relief may come in a limited form toward the end of the week, as the chance of thunderstorms increases across the region. While storms can temporarily break the heat, they also bring risks of their own, including heavy downpours and lightning. The forecast is particularly relevant for Caribbean residents and travelers from Curaçao who may be visiting Europe during this period. Authorities in affected countries are typically urged to issue heat warnings and advise vulnerable populations to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure. The pattern reflects a broader trend of intensifying summer heat waves across the Mediterranean basin in recent years.
A severe heat wave that struck France last month resulted in 5,764 excess deaths — meaning deaths above the normally expected number — according to preliminary data released by French public health authority Santé Publique France (SPF). The agency described the figures as 'unprecedented,' signaling the exceptional and deadly nature of the event. Excess mortality is a key public health metric used to measure the true human cost of extreme weather events beyond what standard death counts reveal. Heat waves have become increasingly deadly in Europe in recent years, with climate scientists linking their growing frequency and intensity to global warming. The figures are still preliminary, meaning the final toll could be revised upward as more data is collected and analyzed. The event serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of populations — particularly the elderly — to extreme heat. For Caribbean islands like Curaçao, which also faces rising temperatures, such data underscores the broader global health risks posed by climate change.
Japan recorded its first official 'kokushobi' — literally 'grueling heat day' — on Tuesday, a designation introduced in April 2025 for days when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The term was created by Japanese authorities to better communicate the dangers of extreme heat to the public. In response to the milestone, the government advised workers to dress more casually, with men being encouraged to wear shorts to the office. The move reflects Japan's broader effort to adapt workplace culture to increasingly severe summer heat. The development is being watched globally as extreme heat events become more frequent due to climate change. Curaçao-based outlet Nu.cw covered the story, highlighting its relevance to readers in a region also familiar with intense tropical heat.
Several regions of Spain are under orange weather alerts as an intense heat wave grips the country, with temperatures expected to reach as high as 45 degrees Celsius in the coming days. The southeastern part of Spain is among the hardest-hit areas, facing both dangerous heat and a significantly elevated risk of wildfires. Authorities have issued the warnings to urge residents and visitors to take precautions during the extreme conditions. The heat wave is expected to intensify over the coming days before any relief is anticipated. Spain is a popular travel destination for Caribbean residents and European tourists, making the alert relevant to those with travel plans in the region.
Several regions of Spain are under a Code Orange weather alert due to extreme heat and an elevated risk of wildfires. The southeastern part of the country is expected to be the hardest hit, with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 45 degrees Celsius (113°F) in the coming days. Spanish meteorological authorities issued the alert to warn residents and travelers of the dangerous conditions. Code Orange signifies severe weather that poses a significant risk to health and safety, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. The heat wave also dramatically increases the likelihood of wildfires, which have historically devastated large areas of Spanish countryside during summer months. Authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and remain alert to emergency announcements. The situation is being closely monitored as conditions are expected to intensify before any relief arrives.
This article does not appear to be relevant to Curaçao or the Caribbean. The story reports that ground frost was recorded in Oldenzaal, a town in the Twente region of the Netherlands, during the night of Monday to Tuesday. The temperature dropped to 0.1 degrees below zero Celsius at ground level, which is described as a rare occurrence during summer. The phenomenon is notable because summer ground frost is highly unusual in the Netherlands. This article appears to have been mistakenly attributed to a Caribbean news source, as it covers a weather event in the Dutch province of Overijssel with no apparent connection to Curaçao or the wider Caribbean region.
Four departments in southern France have been placed under red alert on Tuesday due to an 'extremely high' risk of wildfires. An additional 27 departments are under orange alert, indicating a 'high' risk of fires breaking out. The alerts reflect dangerous weather conditions — likely a combination of heat, low humidity, and strong winds — that create ideal conditions for wildfires to spread rapidly. French authorities have issued the warnings to urge residents and visitors to take precautions and avoid activities that could spark a blaze. Wildfires have been an increasing concern across southern Europe in recent years, with large-scale fires causing significant damage to forests, property, and air quality. The situation is being closely monitored as conditions could deteriorate further throughout the day.
A large wildfire that broke out Thursday approximately 100 kilometers north of Madrid has grown significantly, destroying more than 13,000 hectares of land. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated as authorities work to contain the blaze, according to news agency reports. The fire represents one of the more serious wildfire events in the region, with the scale of destruction raising concerns about emergency response and environmental impact. Firefighting crews are actively engaged in efforts to bring the fire under control. The incident highlights the ongoing wildfire risks facing parts of Europe, particularly during dry and warm seasonal conditions.
The Netherlands is experiencing a slight cooldown after several warm days, a trend expected to continue into the coming week. Wednesday will bring widespread showers across the country, prompting residents to keep an umbrella handy. However, meteorologists caution that despite the expected rainfall, the precipitation will not be sufficient to resolve the ongoing rainfall deficit that has been building. The cooler temperatures and wet Wednesday mark a brief break from recent dry conditions. While the showers are welcomed, experts note that a single rain event is unlikely to make a meaningful dent in the cumulative shortfall. The situation highlights a broader pattern of below-average rainfall that has persisted over the region. Residents and water management authorities are being reminded that the deficit will require sustained and significant rainfall over time to be addressed.
After an extended dry and warm stretch, some relief is in sight for the region as temperatures in the Netherlands have begun to drop over the past few days, a trend expected to continue into next week. Wednesday is forecast to bring meaningful rainfall, prompting the use of an umbrella for many residents. However, meteorologists are tempering expectations, describing the anticipated precipitation as 'a drop on a hot plate' — suggesting the rain will do little to meaningfully address the prolonged dry conditions. The brief cooling trend is welcome but unlikely to signal a sustained shift in weather patterns. Residents have been enduring an extended period of heat and minimal rainfall, making even modest precipitation noteworthy. The forecast is being watched closely given ongoing concerns about dry conditions across the island. No severe weather warnings have been issued alongside the rain forecast.
A new explainer published by Nu.cw on July 18, 2026, outlines the types of extreme weather phenomena — including severe storms and megahailstones — that vacationers may unexpectedly encounter. The piece appears aimed at tourists and travelers heading to destinations where such weather events are possible, offering practical awareness rather than alarm. Megahailstones, which can exceed the size of a golf ball, pose serious risks to people caught outdoors and can cause significant property and vehicle damage. The explainer likely reflects a broader trend of increasingly intense and unpredictable weather patterns affecting popular travel regions. For visitors to the Caribbean and beyond, understanding local weather risks is becoming an essential part of trip planning. The article serves as a public information resource, helping travelers make informed decisions about when and where to be outdoors during their holidays.
The Netherlands is set to experience a significant drop in temperatures over the coming days, with highs falling to around 22°C after a prolonged period of warm, sunny weather. Meanwhile, popular European vacation destinations including Portugal and Italy are bracing for extreme heat combined with severe thunderstorms. This weather contrast is particularly relevant for Caribbean travelers and Dutch nationals who frequently travel between the Netherlands and southern European holiday destinations. The combination of intense heat and storms poses potential risks for tourists currently abroad or planning trips. Travelers in affected regions are advised to monitor local weather warnings. The weather shift reflects broader patterns of climate variability impacting European summer tourism seasons.
The Netherlands is set to experience a notable drop in temperatures this weekend, with highs falling to around 22 degrees Celsius after a period of very warm and sunny weather. Meanwhile, other parts of Europe — including popular vacation destinations such as Portugal and Italy — will continue to see summery heat. The contrast is significant for travelers, as those heading to or already in southern Europe can expect continued warm conditions while visitors to the Netherlands should prepare for cooler weather. The shift in the Netherlands is likely driven by a change in weather patterns, bringing more moderate Atlantic air to the region. For Caribbean islanders and tourists monitoring European weather — whether for travel planning or to stay in touch with family abroad — the divergence highlights the varied climate conditions across the continent this season.
The Netherlands is experiencing a significant drought in mid-July 2026, with the Rhine River falling to its lowest recorded levels. Rainfall deficits have reached alarming proportions, raising concerns about water supply, agriculture, and shipping along one of Europe's busiest waterways. Low river levels on the Rhine directly affect cargo shipping capacity, as vessels must carry lighter loads to avoid running aground, increasing transport costs. The drought conditions are linked to an extended period of below-average precipitation combined with above-average temperatures across the region. Farmers face mounting pressure due to dry soils threatening crop yields, while nature reserves and ecosystems dependent on adequate water levels are also under stress. Dutch authorities and water management boards are monitoring the situation closely and may implement water conservation measures if conditions do not improve. The article appears on nu.cw, Curaçao's Dutch-language news platform, reflecting the island's close media and cultural ties to the Netherlands.
Severe thunderstorms have claimed three lives across France and Germany, as a dangerous weather system sweeps through parts of Western Europe. Details on the exact locations and circumstances of the deaths have not been fully disclosed, but the storms were described as intense. Meanwhile, in southern Spain, firefighters are struggling to contain wildfires amid extreme heat conditions. The combination of high temperatures and dry conditions has made it difficult for crews to bring the blazes under control. The extreme weather events highlight a broader pattern of intensifying summer weather across Europe. Authorities in the affected regions are urging residents to take precautions as conditions remain volatile. The situation continues to develop as emergency services respond across multiple countries.
Travelers and residents across France and Italy are preparing for severe weather conditions in the coming days, with heavy thunderstorms and hail expected to sweep through large parts of both countries. French authorities have issued an orange weather alert — the second-highest warning level — for intense thunderstorms across much of France on Thursday. The severe weather arrives on top of an ongoing heatwave, creating a volatile combination of extreme conditions. Vacationers who had planned outdoor activities or travel during this period are urged to take precautions and monitor official warnings. The timing is particularly disruptive as both France and Italy are in peak summer tourist season, with millions of visitors currently in the region. Orange-level alerts in France typically signal a significant risk to public safety and may prompt cancellations of outdoor events and travel disruptions.
The Netherlands will activate its National Heat Plan in the central and southern provinces starting Saturday, following a decision made Friday by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) in consultation with the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI). The plan is triggered when dangerously high temperatures are forecast and is designed to protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. Seven provinces are affected by the advisory. The KNMI provides the meteorological data that informs RIVM's decision to activate the plan. While this news originates from the Netherlands, it is relevant to Curaçao audiences given the island's constitutional ties to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Heat plans typically prompt municipalities and healthcare institutions to take protective measures such as opening cooling centers and increasing welfare checks. No specific temperature thresholds were mentioned in the excerpt, but activation of the national plan signals conditions serious enough to pose a public health risk.
Spain is reeling from deadly wildfires that broke out in the country's southern region, leaving at least eleven people dead and approximately ten others injured. Authorities are investigating the possibility that all of the victims may be foreign nationals. Nineteen people remain unaccounted for as emergency crews continue search and rescue operations. The fires have sparked shock and grief across Spain, with officials working to contain the blazes and identify those affected. The incident underscores the growing threat of extreme wildfires in southern Europe, fueled by high temperatures and dry conditions. The news is being reported in Curaçao given the potential impact on tourists and residents from the Dutch Caribbean who may be traveling in Spain.
Deadly wildfires in southern Spain have killed at least eleven people and left approximately ten others injured, prompting shock across the country. At least 19 individuals remain unaccounted for as emergency crews continue search and rescue operations. Spanish authorities have described the disaster as an 'unprecedented tragedy,' reflecting the severity and scale of the fires. The blazes have rapidly spread through the southern region, overwhelming local firefighting resources. The fires are among the deadliest to hit Spain in recent memory, drawing national attention and emergency response.
At least eleven people have been killed by wildfires sweeping through the southern Spanish province of Almería. Some of the victims were found dead inside their vehicles, suggesting the fires spread rapidly and left little time to escape. The blazes are part of a broader pattern of extreme wildfire activity affecting parts of Europe during summer heat. Emergency services are responding to the disaster, though the full scale of destruction is still being assessed. The incident highlights the deadly risks posed by wildfires in dry, heat-stricken regions of Europe. While the news originates from Spain, it is being reported by Curaçao's Nu.cw, reflecting local interest in international disasters among the island's Dutch-connected readership.
Wildfires burning in southeastern France have surrounded two mountain villages, leaving more than 5,000 residents trapped and cut off from the outside world. The fires have blocked road access to both communities, making ground resupply and evacuation efforts impossible. Authorities are expected to airlift supplies to the affected residents by Friday. The scale of the fires and the number of people affected highlights the growing threat of wildfires across southern Europe during dry summer months. Emergency services are working to contain the blazes while ensuring the safety and basic needs of those stranded. No immediate casualty figures were reported in the initial coverage.
Germany has recorded an estimated 5,120 heat-related deaths so far this year, according to reporting by nu.cw. The majority of those fatalities occurred during an intense heat wave that struck the country in late June. The figures highlight the deadly toll that extreme heat events can have on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Heat-related mortality is often calculated through excess death statistics, comparing actual fatalities against historical averages for the same period. The news is relevant to Caribbean audiences as rising global temperatures continue to fuel more frequent and severe heat events worldwide, including in the region.
A severe heat wave is currently gripping large parts of Europe, prompting warnings for travelers heading to affected regions. The Netherlands, however, is largely escaping the most extreme temperatures impacting other parts of the continent. Dutch outlet Nu.cw is advising anyone planning to travel abroad in the coming period to prepare adequately for the intense heat conditions they may encounter. The heat is expected to persist across Europe for the foreseeable future, making preparation essential for tourists and travelers alike. For residents of Curaçao already accustomed to tropical warmth, the warning serves as a reminder that European summer heat can be unexpectedly dangerous, particularly in countries with limited air conditioning infrastructure. Health risks associated with extreme heat, including dehydration and heat stroke, are a concern for those not acclimated to such conditions.
A new explainer published by Nu.cw examines why Europe experiences disproportionately high numbers of heat-related deaths compared to other regions of the world. Europe's aging population is a central factor, as older adults are far more vulnerable to extreme heat than younger demographics. Unlike tropical regions such as the Caribbean, many European countries historically have mild summers, meaning homes, infrastructure, and cultural habits are poorly adapted to prolonged heat waves. The lack of air conditioning in much of Northern and Western Europe leaves residents with few options during dangerous temperature spikes. Additionally, urban heat island effects in densely populated European cities intensify already extreme temperatures. Health systems can become overwhelmed during sudden, intense heat events, delaying timely medical intervention. The article provides context for a growing public health concern as climate change makes deadly heat waves more frequent and severe across Europe.
A new explainer published by Nu.cw examines why extreme heat claims more lives in Europe than in other parts of the world, including tropical regions like Curaçao. Despite Caribbean islands experiencing consistently high temperatures year-round, European populations are considered far more vulnerable when heat waves strike. Experts point to factors such as older building stock with poor ventilation, limited air conditioning infrastructure, aging demographics, and a cultural lack of preparedness for sustained high heat. Additionally, European bodies and public health systems are less acclimatized to extreme heat compared to populations that live with it daily. The piece serves as a timely reminder that climate change is intensifying heat events globally, with Europe experiencing some of its deadliest summers on record in recent years.
A volunteer firefighter has died while battling a wildfire in France, as crews across the country continue to fight multiple active blazes. The death highlights the dangerous conditions firefighters are facing amid an intense wildfire season in Western Europe. Concerns are also mounting in Spain and Portugal, where wildfires are posing serious threats to communities and natural areas. High temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds are widely cited as contributing factors to the rapid spread of these fires. The situation reflects a broader pattern of increasingly severe wildfire activity across southern and western Europe during summer months. Authorities in the affected countries are urging residents in fire-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders where issued.
A major heatwave is sweeping across large parts of the United States, coinciding with the Fourth of July Independence Day holiday. Temperatures in some areas are reaching as high as 46 degrees Celsius (115°F), posing serious health risks to residents and holiday revelers. The heatwave arrives just one week after a similar extreme heat event battered parts of Europe. The timing is particularly concerning as millions of Americans travel and gather outdoors for Independence Day celebrations. Authorities are expected to urge residents to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Such back-to-back extreme heat events across continents are increasingly being linked by climate scientists to broader patterns of global warming.
A wildfire that broke out near the southern French city of Perpignan has been brought under control, though firefighters remain on site due to fears that strong winds could reignite the flames. Separately, a major wildfire is burning in Catalonia, Spain, prompting authorities to implement a lockdown in affected areas as crews battle the blaze. Both fires are occurring in the western Mediterranean region, an area increasingly prone to extreme wildfires during summer months. The Catalan fire poses a significant threat to local communities, with residents ordered to stay indoors as a precautionary measure. Firefighting teams in both countries are maintaining heightened vigilance given the dry and windy conditions fueling the risk of the fires spreading further.
Venezuela is reporting a rising death toll following a significant earthquake that struck the country, prompting public scrutiny of the government's emergency response. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has publicly defended the administration's handling of the disaster, pushing back against criticism of the relief efforts. The earthquake caused structural damage and casualties across affected regions, with rescue and recovery operations ongoing. The Maduro government has faced questions about the speed and effectiveness of its response to the natural disaster. Given Curaçao's geographic proximity to Venezuela, the event carries regional significance, particularly for the large Venezuelan diaspora living on the island. The rising death toll suggests the full scale of the disaster is still being assessed. International attention is growing as humanitarian needs in the affected areas become clearer.
A 60-year-old German man died after being struck by lightning on the beach near Renesse, a seaside resort in the Dutch province of Zeeland. The incident occurred last Monday, and Dutch police announced the man's death on Friday. Renesse is a popular beach destination in the Netherlands, known for attracting tourists during the summer season. The man was on the beach when he was hit by a lightning bolt, and despite what can be presumed to be emergency response efforts, he did not survive. Lightning strikes on beaches are rare but dangerous, as open shorelines provide little shelter and can conduct electrical charges. The incident serves as a reminder of the serious risks posed by thunderstorms in coastal areas. No other victims were reported in connection with the strike.
A 60-year-old German man was killed after being struck by lightning on the beach near Renesse, a coastal town in the Zeeland province of the Netherlands, last Saturday. Dutch police announced the fatal incident on Friday. The man was on the beach when the lightning strike occurred, proving fatal. Renesse is a popular seaside destination in the Netherlands, frequently visited by tourists from neighboring countries including Germany. While this incident took place in the Netherlands rather than Curaçao, it is notable for the region given Curaçao's strong historical and administrative ties to the Netherlands and its large Dutch and European tourist population. Lightning strikes on beaches can pose serious danger, particularly during summer months when beach attendance is high. No additional victims were reported in connection with the same storm event.
Curaçao is set to experience pleasant summer weather in the coming weekend, with temperatures just above 20 degrees Celsius. Forecasters describe the conditions as 'agreeable summer weather,' though isolated light showers are possible in some areas. Following the weekend, warmer conditions are expected to develop, though meteorologists remain uncertain whether temperatures will reach tropical levels. The mild forecast offers a comfortable stretch of weather for residents and visitors alike. The uncertainty around peak tropical heat suggests the island could still see a significant temperature increase in the days ahead, making it a period worth monitoring.
A large wildfire broke out east of Perpignan in southern France, forcing the evacuation of at least three coastal campsites and displacing approximately 1,500 people. The fire is burning in the area between Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and surrounding coastal zones, according to French media reports. Emergency services mobilized quickly to manage the blaze and ensure the safety of tourists and residents in the affected area. The incident highlights the growing threat of wildfires in the Mediterranean region, particularly during the summer tourist season when campgrounds are at peak capacity. The evacuations caused significant disruption for holidaymakers, many of whom had to leave their belongings behind as authorities cleared the area.
Portugal has declared a state of emergency as temperatures are expected to rise sharply over the coming days, prompting authorities to issue code red warnings across several provinces through Saturday. The extreme heat brings with it a heightened risk of large-scale wildfires, a recurring and devastating threat for the country. Code red is the highest level of alert in Portugal's warning system, signaling dangerous conditions that require public caution and emergency preparedness. The affected provinces are being urged to take preventive measures as dry conditions combined with soaring temperatures create ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly. Portugal has experienced some of Europe's most destructive wildfires in recent years, making these warnings particularly serious for local residents and authorities alike.
A heatwave that struck last week caused an estimated 480 excess deaths, according to the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). The majority of victims were elderly, a demographic known to be highly vulnerable to extreme heat. Excess mortality is calculated by comparing actual death numbers against what would statistically be expected during a normal period. The RIVM's findings highlight the deadly public health consequences of intense heat events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. The report serves as a sobering reminder of the need for targeted protective measures for older populations during extreme weather. While the heatwave has since passed, health authorities continue to monitor its full impact.
A massive wildfire is burning through southern France, forcing dozens of residents to evacuate their homes. The blaze has spread across an area equivalent to approximately 1,600 soccer fields, making it one of the more significant fires to hit the region. Hundreds of firefighters have been deployed to battle the flames across the departments of Hérault and Aude. Authorities are working to contain the fire and protect surrounding communities as conditions remain dangerous. The incident highlights the growing threat of large-scale wildfires in southern Europe during periods of extreme heat and dry weather.
A severe heatwave continues to grip much of Europe, with Spain reporting more than 1,000 deaths linked to extreme heat and drought conditions. While the Netherlands has seen its heatwave subside, other European countries are still struggling with dangerously high temperatures and prolonged dry spells. In Greece, a family tragedy unfolded amid a devastating fire, adding to the human toll of the ongoing climate crisis across the continent. The scale of heat-related deaths in Spain underscores the growing public health emergency posed by extreme weather events. European health and emergency services are under significant strain as the summer crisis continues.
Hundreds of secondary school students in Curaçao will not receive their final exam results this week as expected — they will now have to wait until the end of August. The delay stems from the cancellation of state exams last Friday due to a code red heat warning on the island. Authorities called off the exams to protect student safety amid the extreme temperatures. The postponement means affected students must wait approximately two months longer than their peers to learn whether they have passed or failed. This creates significant uncertainty for students who had planned next steps — such as further education or employment — based on receiving timely results. The situation highlights the growing impact of extreme heat events on everyday life and institutional schedules in the Caribbean.
After days of intense heat waves across Western Europe, scorching temperatures have now shifted eastward, with multiple cities in Eastern Europe breaking temperature records on Tuesday. Ukrainian soldiers operating Soviet-era tanks are among those facing extreme conditions, as the aging armored vehicles lack modern climate control systems, making combat operations dangerously uncomfortable in the heat. The heat wave has been sweeping across the continent, setting historic highs in multiple locations. The situation raises concerns about both civilian safety and military operational capacity in the region. Eastern European governments are urged to issue heat warnings and take protective measures for vulnerable populations. The broader climate trend continues to fuel concerns about the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme heat events across Europe.
After days of intense heat waves battering Western Europe, the extreme temperatures have now shifted eastward, affecting multiple countries in Eastern Europe. Several cities recorded broken temperature records on Tuesday as the heat wave intensified across the region. Among those affected are Ukrainian soldiers operating Soviet-era tanks, who face dangerous conditions inside the metal vehicles as temperatures soar. The shift in the heat wave marks a broader pattern of extreme weather moving across the continent. High temperatures inside armored vehicles can be life-threatening, raising concerns about the combat readiness and physical welfare of troops on the front lines. The record-breaking heat adds another layer of difficulty to an already grueling conflict situation in Ukraine. Meteorologists are monitoring the situation as Eastern Europe braces for continued extreme heat in the coming days.
A prolonged heat wave continues to grip Eastern Europe, even as the Netherlands recovers from its own spell of extreme heat. Countries including Croatia, Poland, and Cyprus are among the hardest hit, with authorities issuing red-level weather warnings across the region. Wildfires have broken out in Croatia, fueled by the intense heat and dry conditions. Deaths have been reported in both Poland and Cyprus as a result of the ongoing extreme temperatures. Emergency services across the affected countries are working to contain the fires and respond to heat-related medical emergencies. The situation highlights a broader pattern of increasingly severe summer heat events affecting Europe. Residents and tourists in the region are being urged to take precautions and stay hydrated.