Storm forecasts prompt Dutch event cancellations and fewer island ferries

Stormy weather expected across the Netherlands this weekend has led to event cancellations and reduced ferry services to the Wadden Islands.

Storm Austen is expected to cross the country from the south-west on Friday afternoon, with Storm Boelo forecast to arrive on Saturday. Strong gusts are possible on Friday afternoon and evening and overnight into Sunday, according to ANP, which reported the cancellations on Nieuws.nl.

The Night of the Night event in Middelburg, where street performers were due to appear in the historic city centre on Saturday evening with the street lights off, has been cancelled. Several sports clubs have also called off Friday evening training sessions.

Ferry operators Doeksen and Wagenborg Passenger Services are running fewer sailings this weekend and on Monday. Wagenborg is changing its timetable between Holwert and Ameland; Doeksen is operating less often and at different times between Harlingen and Terschelling and Vlieland.