New Year’s weather warning issued for wind gusts of up to 100 km/h
Those celebrating New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in the Netherlands can expect heavy gusts of wind, and the possibility of sustained storm-force winds along the coast could put a damper on festivities. Dutch national meteorological office KNMI has issued predicted gusts ranging up to 90 kilometers per hour, with weather website WeerOnline predicting a peak of up to 100 kilometers per hour at some points.
The KNMI issued a weather warning for strong winds in Noord-Holland, the Wadden Islands and the region around the Wadden Sea, but cautioned that the rest of the country may also be impacted. The weather warning is in effect from 11 p.m. on New Year's Eve through 8 a.m. the following morning.
The southwesterly wind will likely build in strength over the course of Monday up to a maximum of about 49 km/h, and then rising up towards stronger gale-force winds of about 75 km/h by midday on Tuesday. The wind will build in strength by the end of the afternoon, particularly around the northwest coast, the KNMI said.
There is a "substantial chance" that the wind will gust at over 75 km/h over inland regions of the Netherlands, potentially reaching 100 km/h at the coast, according to WeerOnline. The first day of the New Year will remain very windy in large parts of the country with gusts ranging from 75-100 km/h even into the overnight hours leading to Thursday morning, the website's meteorologists predicted.
The KNMI warned that the weather conditions could disrupt traffic and outdoor activities during the celebrations. In previous years, adverse weather conditions on New Year's Eve has caused significant problems on highways, particularly due to fog and heavy winds. However, poor weather on December 31 has previously discouraged people from going outside, limiting public disturbances, particularly with regard to the use of fireworks.
The KNMI has advised residents and visitors in the affected areas to exercise caution. Those traveling or participating in outdoor festivities are encouraged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and plan accordingly to avoid potential disruptions.
