THE NETHERLANDS, October 24, 2026 — Strong winds associated with Storm Austen have affected parts of the Netherlands, bringing down trees and branches and disrupting some transport services. The severe weather has also prompted flight cancellations by Dutch airline KLM, highlighting the challenges facing travellers during the stormy autumn conditions.
Reports published on Saturday described incidents in several parts of the country, including a tree falling onto a moving car in Amsterdam and another damaging the roof of a farmhouse in Volkel. No injuries were reported in those incidents, according to Dutch media coverage.
Storm Austen Brings Powerful Winds to the Netherlands
Storm Austen moved into the Low Countries after bringing severe weather to parts of the United Kingdom. The Dutch meteorological service, KNMI, issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds in several provinces.
Authorities warned residents to remain alert as gusty conditions could create hazards on roads, near trees and in exposed areas. Falling branches and unsecured outdoor objects can pose risks even when the weather warning does not reach the highest alert level.
Although the Netherlands regularly experiences strong winds, conditions during named storms can affect road, rail, ferry and aviation operations, depending on the location and intensity of the weather.
KLM Cancels Flights Because of Strong Winds
KLM cancelled 20 flights on Friday, October 23, because of strong winds, according to a spokesperson cited by Reuters. The airline also expected a further 22 cancellations on Saturday, bringing the announced total across the two days to 42.
The cancellations were announced as a precaution in response to the weather conditions. However, the final number of flights actually cancelled may differ from the initial plan as conditions and airline operations change.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol reported that the overall impact of the weather had initially been limited. At the time of the reports, other airlines had not announced cancellations for the same weather-related reason.
Passengers should check directly with their airline and consult the airport's live departure and arrival information before travelling.
Fallen Trees and Local Transport Disruption
The strong winds have caused damage in several locations. In Amsterdam, a tree reportedly fell onto a moving car, while a farmhouse in Volkel suffered roof damage after a tree was blown into the building.
Rail services were also affected by fallen trees on tracks. Dutch media reported temporary interruptions on some routes, including connections near the German border.
Ferry operators serving the Dutch Wadden Islands announced timetable changes and reduced services in anticipation of the stormy weather. Passengers travelling by ferry were advised to check schedules before departure.
What Travellers Should Know
People travelling through the Netherlands over the weekend should prepare for possible changes to their journeys. Strong winds can affect several forms of transport, and conditions may vary significantly between regions.
- Air travel: Check flight status and airline notifications before leaving for the airport.
- Rail travel: Check for service interruptions caused by fallen trees or damaged infrastructure.
- Ferry services: Confirm departure times with the operator, especially for routes to the Wadden Islands.
- Road travel: Drive carefully in exposed areas and keep a safe distance from other vehicles during gusty conditions.
Travellers should follow official weather warnings and local safety instructions, particularly in coastal areas and locations with large trees.
Weather Conditions Remain Important Across Northern Europe
The unsettled weather is part of a wider period of storm activity affecting parts of north-western Europe. After Storm Austen, forecasters have also been monitoring Storm Boelo, which is expected to bring further strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the United Kingdom.
The expected effects vary by country. Travellers should not assume that warnings issued for the United Kingdom apply equally to the Netherlands, or that all airports and airlines will experience the same level of disruption.
Conclusion
Storm Austen has brought strong winds and localised damage to the Netherlands, while KLM has announced flight cancellations and some rail and ferry services have faced disruption. Although the overall impact on Schiphol was initially described as limited, individual journeys may still be affected.
Passengers travelling on October 24 should check the latest information from their airline, airport or transport operator before setting off.
Sources and updates:
- Reuters — KLM flight cancellations due to strong winds
- NL Times — Storm Austen causes damage in the Netherlands
- KNMI — Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport — Live departures
Information reflects reports available on October 24, 2026. Flight schedules and weather warnings may change as conditions develop.
