Roads closed after whirlwind

The police closed access roads to Wijk bij Duurstede Sunday afternoon after a whirlwind passed over the village. Non locals were turned away. Residents were advised to stay in and not to start damage repairs on roofs yet.The whirlwind caused a lot of damage in the Molenvliet  neighborhood. Tiles came off roofs, and trees and lampposts were uprooted. Around 21:30, the blockade was lifted, and the advice to residents to stay indoors was withdrawn, but some streets were still closed.

Residents were terrified. One witness saw the whirlwind moving down their street, from the industrial park, picking up trees and lampposts, and damaging cars and properties.

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Another local resident said the there was a lot of noise and leaves everywhere. He was watching TV, when he saw a tree being uprooted. It landed right in front of his window. The whole thing lasted for about 5 to 6 seconds.

Yet another resident stated a branch went through the window of his daughter's bedroom. She was in her room at the time, but miraculously remained unharmed.

The City of Wijk bij Duurstede opened a hotline to answer questions from residents.