Published on
January 3, 2026
The severe winter weather conditions sweeping across the Netherlands have caused major travel disruptions. On Saturday, January 3, 2026, heavy snow resulted in more than 500 flight cancellations and delays at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, while hazardous road conditions and train delays have also impacted travellers nationwide. The snowstorm has left many commuters stranded, creating chaos on highways and public transport.
As the storm continues, the authorities are working to improve the situation. Schiphol Airport has issued warnings about the ongoing disruptions and is advising passengers to stay updated on their flight statuses. Despite these challenges, there are signs of improvement, with hopes for smoother operations later in the day.
Disruptions at Schiphol and Other Airports in the Netherlands
The situation at Schiphol Airport is critical. By midday, 128 departures were cancelled, while 75 flights were delayed. Similarly, 136 arrivals were affected, with 163 flights delayed. Passengers are warned to expect ongoing delays due to unpredictable weather conditions. A spokesperson for the airport mentioned that despite the continuing snowstorm, the airport hoped conditions would improve by the afternoon to allow more flights to depart.
At Eindhoven Airport, officials are monitoring the winter weather closely. While no delays or cancellations have been reported yet, there are concerns that the storm could affect operations as the day progresses. Meanwhile, at Rotterdam The Hague Airport, the first six departures experienced an average delay of 60 minutes, with just one arrival expected to be delayed.
Hazardous Conditions on Roads and Railways
Travel across the Netherlands is being severely affected by the snowstorm, with slippery roads leading to numerous accidents. Several trucks and cars have slid off highways, including incidents on the A6 near Almere and the N377 near Dedemsvaart, where one truck was stuck in a ditch. Fortunately, no major injuries were reported from these accidents.
Rijkswaterstaat, the Dutch water management agency, has issued alerts about freezing wet roads, which have made highways extremely dangerous. They explained that the lack of traffic during the Christmas holidays makes it easier for roads to freeze, increasing the risk of accidents. Since 7 a.m., the agency has dispatched 8,613,489 kilos of salt to major highways to help prevent further incidents.
Rail travel has also been affected, with NS International and domestic NS trains running with delays and reduced services. Intercity trains between Eindhoven Centraal and Sittard are running less frequently, and delays of up to 15 minutes are expected on several other routes. NS has advised travellers to check train schedules before departure.
Winter Weather Continues to Cause Problems Nationwide
Across the Netherlands, the snowstorm continues to disrupt daily life. Rijkswaterstaat reported that freezing wet roads and slippery conditions are a major concern for commuters and drivers. In response, road crews have been working throughout the day to spread salt on highways to ensure safety. Authorities are urging people to stay at home if possible or to drive with extreme caution if they must travel.
Several roads in the northern and central regions have been closed temporarily due to accidents and icy conditions. Early morning collisions between vehicles on the A28 near Eelde led to the temporary closure of the highway heading towards Assen, which caused traffic disruptions.
Impact on Domestic and International Travel
The snowstorm has not only disrupted flights but also caused significant problems for those relying on trains. While Schiphol Airport has been the main focus of attention, other travel routes are also suffering delays. NS is continuing to monitor the situation, and commuters are urged to check real-time updates before setting out.
With more than 500 flights impacted, and rail services operating with delays and reduced frequencies, it’s clear that this snowstorm is one of the most disruptive in recent memory. Passengers are advised to remain in touch with airlines and railway services for updates on their travel times.
What You Need to Know About the Ongoing DisruptionsSchiphol Airport has reported that more than 500 flights were affected by the snowstorm, with significant delays at both departures and arrivals.Other airports such as Eindhoven and Rotterdam The Hague are also seeing some minor delays, with Rotterdam reporting delays of up to 60 minutes for initial departures.Road conditions across the Netherlands are hazardous due to the freezing weather, leading to numerous accidents and road closures.Rail services are running with delays and fewer trains, so travellers are advised to check schedules regularly.Preparing for the Snowstorm’s Aftermath
While the snowstorm continues to cause significant travel disruptions, the authorities are working hard to improve the situation. Schiphol Airport hopes to see an improvement by the afternoon, allowing for the departure of more flights. Rijkswaterstaat has been working tirelessly to manage road conditions, and they are encouraging people to take extra precautions while travelling.
As the snowstorm progresses, it is essential for travellers to stay informed and flexible with their travel plans. Whether flying, driving, or taking the train, the weather conditions will continue to cause delays, but with careful planning and timely updates, disruptions can be minimized.
Conclusion: How to Stay Safe During the Snowstorm
As the snowstorm continues to impact the Netherlands, it is essential for travellers to keep safety in mind. Avoid unnecessary travel, check the weather and travel updates regularly, and always plan for extra time to reach your destination. If you’re travelling by air, train, or car, stay updated on delays and cancellations to make your journey as smooth as possible.
The Netherlands is experiencing severe winter weather, and while it may be inconvenient, authorities are working diligently to ensure that disruptions are minimized. Stay safe and take care on the roads and in airports, and remember that conditions may change throughout the day. With patience and preparation, you can still enjoy your travel experience despite the snowstorm.
