Published on: January 11, 2026, 12:40 PM
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Rijkswaterstaat will deploy icebreakers at multiple locations in the Netherlands to keep waterways ice-free. Due to persistent frost and changing wind directions, ice formation is increasing.
Icebreaking is necessary to prevent damage to waterworks and ensure safety on and around the water.
Safety first
Keeping waterways ice-free is primarily necessary to protect our infrastructure. Stuck or piled-up ice can cause damage to bridges, locks, and water barriers. By intervening in time, we prevent ice from sticking or compacting.
Icebreakers deployed on multiple routes
Icebreakers have been on standby in recent days. On Saturday, January 10, 2026, an icebreaker was proactively deployed, including near Gaarkeuken. This deployment was necessary because the wind was expected to change and ice could come from the lakes towards the waterways. This deployment continues today, January 11.
On the Harderwijk - Amsterdam route and near Lauwersoog, icebreakers are also being deployed from today to break the ice. By keeping the ice loose early, heavier ice formation and difficult breaking later are prevented. We are also alert at other locations, such as Markermeer.
Movement in the water helps
The more movement there is in the water, the less chance ice will stick. By actively breaking ice, the water stays in motion and further ice formation is slowed. A positive side effect is that shipping on these routes can continue where possible. Moving ships also contribute to extra water movement and thus help limit the formation of ice floes.
Continuous monitoring
We continuously monitor weather forecasts and ice development. Based on current observations and surveys, it is determined where and when icebreaking is necessary. This ensures safety on and around the water is maintained as well as possible even under winter conditions.