Slippery conditions caused by hail and snow showers led to major delays during Thursday’s rush hour, broadcaster Nos says on Thursday.

In particular, there were jams and slow-moving traffic on the A1, A2 and A27, adding up to two hours to some journeys. By 08.30 hours, there were over 300 km of traffic jams, news agency ANP says.

Most snow is expected to fall in the east of the country, weather website weeronline.nl says. In addition, people in north-western coastal areas are being warned about strong gales.

Gritting lorries are out in force and will continue working throughout the day, Nos says. More snow is expected on Thursday evening.

Rail services have been reduced, particularly in the central urban area, because of the expected snow and disruption.

Intercity services have been cut from every 15 minutes to every 30 minutes. The reduced services will continue throughout the day and no problems have yet been reported, the NS says.