The meteorological spring has got off to a flying start in the Netherlands, with sunshine and unusually high temperatures forecast for most of the coming week.

Monday will bring some cloud in the north but there will be sunshine elsewhere. A moderate southerly to south-easterly wind will carry mild air across the country, pushing temperatures to 13° to 15° in the north and west, and a little higher in central and southern parts.

Typical temperatures for early March are around 9°.

Tuesday will again be dry and sunny but the wind will pick up slightly during the day, keeping temperatures a little cooler on the coast and in the north.

Wednesday will see cloud moving through the north, while the south enjoys sunshine. Temperatures will be slightly lower than the beginning of the week.

However, the settled, spring-like weather is expected to hold through the rest of the week and into the weekend, with long sunny spells and temperatures dropping to between 3° and 7° at night.