07 Feb 2021 | 11:50 AM UTC
Netherlands: Severe weather warnings in place nationwide Feb. 7
Authorities in the Netherlands issue severe weather warnings for snow and high winds Feb. 7. Transport disruptions likely.
Event
Meteorological authorities in the Netherlands have issued red-level warnings, the highest on a four-tier scale, for heavy snow and high winds nationwide through Feb. 7. The Royal Dutch Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has forecast that up to 5 cm (2 inches) of snow may fall Feb. 7, with locally higher totals likely. Additionally, strong easterly winds of up to 90 kph ( 56 mph) are forecast. Although the weather is forecast to begin clearing in the south of the country from late Feb. 7 officials could update and possibly extend the weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; officials have warned of snowdrifts of up to 50 cm (20 inches). Decreased visibility is also likely; the KNMI has warned that visibility could decrease to 500 meters. Minor disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant weather events impact utility networks.
Transport
Heavy precipitation, falling as either snow or rain, may temporarily impact overland travel. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Authorities could tunnels as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. Snowfall could impact regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible.
The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic in the North Sea.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories through at least early Feb. 8. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on roads blocked by snowdrifts. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
