The KNMI weather bureau has issued a code yellow weather warning for all but Groningen and Drenthe, saying very strong winds are expected over most of the country on Thursday evening.

The wind, gusting at up to 100 kph, will be strongest in the west and southwest of the country, the KNMI said. Road and rail traffic could be disrupted.

Wednesday is set to be a day of contrasts, with cloud and sunny spells, and it will rain heavily overnight, the KNMI said. Thursday itself will be dry with sunny spells, but some rain will move into western areas from late afternoon as the wind picks up.

The storm itself will fade out by Friday, but the wet and windy weather will continue towards the end of the month.