Up to 15cm of snow, -10°C wind chill Friday: Storm Goretti forces train timetable cuts

The Netherlands faces its fifth snowy day this week as hazardous winter conditions sweep across the northern provinces. Forecasters expect Storm Goretti, which formed near the Normandy coast, to bring 5–15 centimeters of snow, strong winds, and icy conditions on Friday, with isolated higher totals possible.

Temperatures will drop to a low of -15 degrees in some areas, with widespread lows below -10 degrees, and wind chills near -8 degrees. The KNMI has issued a Code Orange warning for Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, and the Wadden Islands starting at midnight. NS trains will run on a reduced schedule, with northern routes temporarily decoupled from the rest of the country.

Northern and northeastern provinces will see heavy snow combined with strong east winds, creating snowdrifts that could block roads and slow traffic. On the Wadden Islands, gusts may reach over 75 kilometers per hour, producing blizzard-like conditions. Authorities warn that roads, sidewalks, and bike paths will be extremely slippery.

NS will operate a limited service due to the winter storm. In the north, trains will be decoupled from the national network, meaning travelers heading south from Groningen and Friesland must transfer in Zwolle. Arriva’s northern lines will remain suspended until 10 a.m., with additional measures under discussion for buses and other routes. Travelers should expect longer journeys and crowded trains.

Central and southern provinces will start Friday with rain at temperatures above freezing, transitioning to snow as temperatures fall toward 0 degrees in the afternoon and evening. Snow and ice on roads, sidewalks, and bike paths will create hazardous travel conditions, even where previous snow remains.

Saturday will remain cold, with highs ranging from 1 degree in western Zeeland to -2 degrees in eastern and northern regions. Snow will continue mainly in southern provinces, while northern areas may see increasing sunshine.

The night into Sunday will be frigid, with widespread frost and lows below -10 degrees, and isolated spots dipping below -15 degrees. Sunday will remain dry but bitterly cold, with highs between -1 degree in Zeeland and -4 degrees in eastern and northern provinces, accompanied by sunshine.