Thick Fog Alert in Netherlands: Drivers Face Dangerous Low Visibility on Major Roads
Dense fog covered large parts of the Netherlands on Sunday morning, prompting a yellow weather alert in several provinces. Visibility dropped to below 200 meters in some areas, creating hazardous driving conditions, according to KNMI (Koninklijk Nederlands Meteorologisch Instituut – Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute).
The fog mainly affected central, southern, and western regions of the country. Provinces such as Zeeland, Noord-Brabant, and Limburg experienced the thickest mist, while northern and eastern areas had slightly better visibility, although localized fog could still occur.
Authorities warned drivers to remain cautious on the roads. Due to limited visibility and slower reaction times, motorists were advised to double the distance from vehicles ahead, reduce speed by half, and use proper lighting to remain visible in the fog.
Weather officials expect the fog to gradually clear later in the morning as sunshine spreads from the east. In areas where the mist lifts early, temperatures could reach around 12 degrees Celsius, while regions where fog lingers may remain cooler at about 8 degrees.
During the afternoon, conditions are expected to become mostly sunny and mild inland. Temperatures could rise to between 16 and 19 degrees under a light east wind. Coastal areas, however, will stay cooler with temperatures ranging from 10 to 14 degrees due to a cold sea breeze.
Meteorologists also noted the presence of Sahara-stof (Saharan dust) in the atmosphere, which may slightly dull the color of the sky. By evening, inland areas are expected to remain mostly clear, while the west coast and regions around the Waddenzee (Wadden Sea) and IJsselmeer (IJsselmeer Lake) may see mist or low clouds return.
Overnight temperatures are forecast to drop significantly, ranging from 1 to 4 degrees inland and around 7 degrees along the coast. Frost could develop in sheltered inland areas. On Monday morning, coastal regions may again experience fog or low clouds, while inland areas should see sunshine with daytime temperatures between 15 and 19 degrees.