Windstorm projections highlight regional vulnerabilities across the Netherlands

Researchers from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have collaborated with the Climate Impact Atlas to present a detailed overview of how windstorm risks vary across the Netherlands, combining historic observations with future climate projections. According to this map narrative, average wind speeds in the Netherlands have remained relatively stable in recent decades, but extreme wind events continue to pose serious risks to infrastructure, energy networks, and coastal areas. Particularly windstorms tend to be intense and damaging.

The platform provides maps that display the probability of damaging wind gusts, including both observed data and expected changes under the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute’s (KNMI) climate scenarios. These projections suggest that while overall wind climates may not shift dramatically, the intensity and frequency of severe storms could increase during winter, particularly along the coast and in the north-western provinces. The Atlas also highlights the economic and safety implications of these events, such as damage to roofs, trees, and transport systems, and encourages municipalities to factor wind risk into spatial planning and construction standards.

By integrating climate data, model simulations, and local exposure information, this map narrative can help policymakers and citizens better prepare for high-wind conditions in a changing climate.