winter returns with a whisper: snow chances rise this weekend

2026-02-12 binnenland

Nederland, donderdag, 12 februari 2026.
the netherlands faces a sudden shift in weather as cold air moves in from the north. temperatures are expected to drop sharply, reaching just above or below zero by the weekend. this creates a real chance for wet snow, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. experts point to saturday and sunday as critical days, with several centimeters of snow possible before rain takes over. although any snow cover may not last long, the risk of slippery roads and difficult travel remains. forecasters agree conditions are aligning for a brief but noticeable return of winter. the change comes earlier than many expected, catching some off guard.

cold front brings winter back to northern and eastern regions

A significant cooling trend is expected across the Netherlands this weekend due to incoming polar air from Scandinavia. Temperatures are projected to fall to around 3 degrees Celsius during the day, with nighttime values potentially dropping to -5 degrees in inland areas [1]. This sharp decline increases the likelihood of winter precipitation, especially in the northern and eastern provinces where wet snow is most probable. Forecast models indicate that the coldest period will occur overnight into Sunday, raising concerns for icy road conditions [2][3].

snowfall predictions vary by region and timing

Meteorological services report varying probabilities for snow accumulation depending on location and time. On Saturday, isolated flurries are possible but widespread accumulation is unlikely [4]. However, Sunday presents a stronger chance for measurable snowfall, particularly from midday onward as a moisture-bearing system approaches from the Atlantic [5]. Experts suggest that under optimal conditions—surface temperatures near or below freezing—a snow layer of 1 to 5 centimeters could form temporarily [3][6]. Such accumulations would primarily affect elevated terrain such as the Veluwe and Limburg hills [7].

travel disruptions and safety warnings issued

Authorities are cautioning drivers about hazardous driving conditions due to anticipated ice and slush on roads. The combination of subzero night temperatures and daytime melting followed by refreezing raises the risk of black ice formation [8]. Emergency services advise reduced speeds and increased following distances. Public transportation operators are preparing for minor delays, particularly in rural and peripheral zones vulnerable to icing [9]. Cyclists and pedestrians are urged to exercise extra caution, especially on untreated paths and bridges during early morning hours when frost persists [10].

brief winter interlude followed by warming trend

Despite the temporary return of winter-like weather, forecasts predict a swift transition back to milder conditions starting Monday. Temperatures are expected to climb toward 8 degrees Celsius nationwide, accelerating snowmelt and eliminating lingering ice patches [1]. This warming results from a developing low-pressure area shifting wind direction to the southwest, drawing in maritime air masses from the Atlantic Ocean [2]. Consequently, any visible snow cover is likely to disappear within 24 to 48 hours after deposition, limiting opportunities for winter recreation [5][7]. Long-term projections show no sustained cold spell emerging in the immediate future [6].

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