Snow ploughs and grit lorries are out in force in the south of the country clearing the first snowfall of this winter, broadcaster Nos said on Saturday.

The snow has been particularly heavy in eastern parts of Brabant and in Limburg and more snow will fall throughout the day, weather forecasters said.

There have been a number of accidents on the roads, including on the A2 at Eindhoven, the A15 near Ridderkerk and the N59 between Zierikzee and Hellegatsplein.

In one accident, a horse transporter came off the road, Nos said.

The ANWB motoring organisation has warned drivers to adapt their speeds to the strong winds, sleet and snow.

Dutch railway company NS said on Friday it would reduce services on busy routes to ease potential problems.