The KNMI weather bureau issued a code amber weather warning on Thursday morning, because of the risk of black ice forming on roads in most of the country.

The warning applies to all but the southern provinces and the Wadden Sea islands, the KNMI said. The black ice will melt in most of the country as the morning progresses but there many also be wintry showers in the north, bringing sleet or a light dusting of snow.

It will be warmer on Thursday and Friday than in recent days, with the temperature rising to around 9 Celsius during the day, and remaining well above freezing at night.

On Saturday – Christmas Day – it will be chilly again, and this could lead to snow in places, the KNMI said.

From Sunday onwards, it will be grey with a 50% chance of showers on most days.