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Storm Benjamin Triggers Early Code Orange and Travel Disruption Across the Netherlands

Authorities advanced warnings and imposed targeted rail, road and bridge restrictions to reduce risks from gusts forecast to reach 120 km/h.

Overview

  • KNMI activated an earlier coastal code orange from 15:00, with very strong gusts of 100–120 km/h expected, and maintained code yellow for inland regions.
  • Rijkswaterstaat enforced 70 km/h limits, a no‑overtaking rule and detours for trucks and trailers on the LelystadEnkhuizen dike, and suspended bridge operations in Flevoland.
  • NS ran fewer intercity services between Schiphol and Lelystad into the evening, and the ANWB noted an early rush hour with nationwide congestion stretching to hundreds of kilometres.
  • Emergency responders handled numerous incidents including crashes, fallen trees and localized damage; Arnhem’s buses experienced significant delays as winds strengthened.
  • Police and EOD addressed suspected illegal‑firework explosions and unstable devices at multiple locations this week, with investigations ongoing alongside reports of a thwarted ram‑raid and a missing 15‑year‑old from Veenendaal.