The KNMI weather bureau issued a code amber weather warning for the eastern provinces of Gelderland, Overijssel and Drenthe on Thursday afternoon, saying severe thunderstorms are expected. 

Heavy rain is forecast to move into the Netherlands on Thursday afternoon and evening, causing local flooding and problems on the roads.

Weather site weerplaza expects between 50 and 80 millimetres of rain to fall in just a few hours. This is equivalent to a month’s rainfall.

Motoring organisation ANWB is warning that the amount of rain will cause traffic problems and a busier than usual rush hour.

The rain is forecast to move away during the night.