This winter was the second warmest since early records began in 1706, the KNMI weather bureau said on Friday.

The average temperature in December, January and February was 6 Celsius, compared with a normal winter month average of 3.4 Celsius. And the average temperature nationwide has not once dipped below freezing, the KNMI said.

The warmest winter on record was that of 2007 when it was half a degree milder. This winter has also been sunny and dry, with an average of 250 hours of sunshine, compared with 196 hours in an average winter. 

The meteorlogical spring begins on Saturday when it will be mainly overcast and around 9 Celsius, the KNMI said.