05 Jul 2023 | 07:36 AM UTC
Netherlands: Adverse weather forecast across the country through July 5
Severe weather forecast across the Netherlands through July 5. Transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Storm Poly is forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall across the Netherlands through July 5. As of early July 5, the Royal Dutch Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has issued red (the highest level on a three-tier scale) wind warnings across North Holland, Flevoland, and Friesland provinces; winds of 100-120 kph (62-75 mph) are forecast. Orange wind warnings are in place across South Holland, Overijssel, Drenthe, and Groningen provinces, with yellow warnings issued across the rest of the country. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Authorities have suspended flights at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) 09:00-11:00 July 5 in advance of the adverse weather conditions and have warned that only limited air traffic will be possible through at least 15:00 July 5. Hundreds of flights have been canceled since late July 4. Lingering flight disruptions are likely even after weather conditions improve as airlines work to clear backlogs. The Dutch National Railway Company (NS) has canceled all train services in Flevoland and North Holland provinces as well as between Amersfoort and Zwolle cities early July 5. Gemeente Vervoerbedrijf (GVB) has suspended all tram services due to power outages.
Hazardous Conditions
The strong winds could lead to downed power lines and consequent power outages, as well as damage from flying debris. Strong wind gusts could lead to rough sea conditions in coastal areas and difficult overland travel conditions.
Transport
The severe weather will likely cause ground transport disruptions in parts of the affected region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are likely on secondary and rural roadways in affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become hazardous. Gusty winds may topple high-profile vehicles in some affected areas. Hazardous weather conditions might also cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region over the coming hours and days. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Out of an abundance of caution, confirm all transport reservations before travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
