Code Orange Issued Until 11:00 AM in Northern Netherlands Due to Freezing Rain
Orange weather warning
A Code Orange weather warning remains in effect until late morning for the northern and northeastern regions of the Netherlands, as hazardous road conditions caused by freezing rain and ice continue to pose serious risks. The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) warns that wet road surfaces may freeze, creating extremely slippery conditions.
Regions Affected by the Weather Alert
The warning is valid until 11:00 AM and applies to the following provinces and areas:
- Friesland
- Groningen
- Drenthe
- Overijssel
- The Wadden Islands
In Groningen, conditions may worsen further as snowfall is also expected, increasing the likelihood of dangerous travel conditions.
KNMI Warns of Severe Road Hazards
According to the KNMI, freezing of damp road surfaces overnight and during the early morning hours can lead to black ice, which is often invisible to drivers. This significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially during peak commuting hours.
“Due to freezing rain and icy patches, roads may become extremely slippery, making travel hazardous,” the KNMI stated.
Accidents Reported Following Icy Conditions
The current warning follows a Code Orange alert that was also in place overnight. Several traffic accidents were reported as a result of the treacherous conditions.
In Valthermond, Drenthe, a police vehicle collided with another car that had slid off the road due to ice and crashed into a tree. The police were responding to the initial incident when their vehicle skidded while braking and struck the crashed car.
Authorities report that multiple accidents have occurred across the region, underscoring the seriousness of the weather situation.
Safety Advice for Road Users
Drivers and pedestrians are urged to take extra precautions:
- Avoid unnecessary travel where possible
- Reduce speed and increase following distance
- Be alert for black ice on bridges and rural roads
- Follow updates from KNMI and local authorities
Outlook for the Rest of the Day
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later in the morning as temperatures rise. However, until the warning is lifted, authorities advise extreme caution, particularly in rural and less-traveled areas where ice may persist longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does Code Orange mean in the Netherlands?
Code Orange indicates a high risk of dangerous weather conditions that can significantly disrupt daily activities and pose safety hazards.
What is the main danger associated with freezing rain?
Freezing rain can create black ice, which is difficult to detect and extremely slippery, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
When will the warning end?
The KNMI expects the Code Orange warning to remain in effect until 11:00 AM, depending on temperature developments.
Which areas are most affected?
The northern and northeastern provinces, including Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel, and the Wadden Islands, are most at risk.
