Netherlands: Adverse weather forecast across much of country through at least Feb. 19 /update 1

Severe weather forecast across much of the Netherlands through at least Feb. 19; disruptions to transport ongoing

Event

Strong winds associated with Storm Eunice are forecast across the Netherlands through at least Feb. 19. Wind gusts of 100-120 kph (62-75 mph) are forecast for inland areas, with gusts in coastal areas likely to reach up to 130 kph (80 mph). The storm is expected to reach the Netherlands around 14:00 Feb. 18 and peak in the late afternoon.

As of Feb. 18, the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute has issued the following weather warnings:

Red wind warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Flevoland, Friesland, North Holland, South Holland, and Zeeland provinces, as well as the Wadden Islands and sea area and the waters of Ijsselmeer.
Orange wind warnings: Drenthe, Gelderland, Grongingen, North Brabant, Overijssel, and Utrecht provinces.
Yellow wind warnings: Limburg Province.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The strong winds could topple power lines, resulting in power outages and business disruptions. Flying debris may cause other material damage. Strong wind gusts could also cause rough surf in coastal areas and difficult overland travel conditions.

Transport
Authorities will notably cancel all domestic and international train traffic from 14:00 Feb. 18 to ensure the safety of employees and passengers; trains will run on a reduced schedule until 14:00. In addition, authorities at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) have canceled 167 flights scheduled for Feb. 18 and warned that many incoming flights that are not canceled will be delayed. 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 highways if driving conditions become hazardous. Gusty winds may topple high-profile vehicles in some areas.

Advice

Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.