Flights, trains cancelled as the Netherlands gears up for snow

The KNMI weather bureau has issued a code orange extreme weather warning for most of the Netherlands on Friday, as snow and strong winds are expected during the morning rush hour.


At 08.00 hours it was snowing in southern and western parts of the country but few major problems on the roads had been reported. The longest delays are on the A12 and A9, Nos television said.
The ANWB motoring organisation said drivers had moderated their speeds to take account of the weather. Rush hour also started earlier than normal as drivers tried to beat the forecast bad weather.
Salt lorries had been out in force overnight and snow ploughs are on standby in Zeeland and round Alkmaar and Amsterdam, news agency ANP said.
Afternoon
The snow showers started later than forecast and will be heaviest later in the morning, weather forecasters said. Difficult conditions will be compounded by strong winds in the west.
The snow is expected to continue until early afternoon, giving cover of five to 10 cm, and up to 15 cm in places.
Dutch Rail (NS) reported no delays with early services and has extra staff on standby to deal with problems. However, services have been reduced to offset the risk of major disruption and passengers are warned to expect crowded trains and longer journey times.
At Schiphol airport, 150 of Friday’s 900 flights have already been cancelled and snow elsewhere in Europe is also having an impact on arrivals and departures.
Airline KLM on Thursday evening cancelled dozens of European flights as a precautionary measure. Travellers are advised to check with their airline for details.

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