Storm warning issued for entire Netherlands; strong winds, rain, hail expected

The entire country can look forward to a stormy Friday morning. Meteorological institute KNMI issued a code yellow storm warning covering the entire Netherlands. The institute warns of strong winds, lightning, hail and large amounts of rain falling in a short time.

The storms will leave the country in a north easterly direction by this afternoon, the KNMI expects. Until then Netherlands residents can look forward to winds between 60 and 70 kilometers per hour and up to 20 mm of rain falling in a short period of time.

"Traffic and outside activities may be hindered. Avoid open water and open areas, do not shelter under trees. Follow weather reports and warnings", the KNMI advises.

Afternoon temperatures will range between 18 degrees Celsius in the north to 21 degrees in the southeast. The clouds will clear up during the course of the night.

The weekend will be partly cloudy and warm, with little chance of rain. Afternoon temperatures may climb to 26 degrees.