The Netherlands has experienced an unusually long stretch without sunshine. In De Bilt, the sun hasn't appeared for eight consecutive days, a situation not seen since February 1993 when there were ten sunless days. If the sun doesn't break through by Wednesday, this gray spell will surpass that record.
According to NOS meteorologist Willemijn Hoebert, the persistent cloudiness is due to high-pressure areas causing low-hanging clouds and little atmospheric movement. While some regions, like the coast and South Limburg, have seen brief glimpses of the sun, much of the country remains under overcast skies.
This lack of sunshine affects energy prices, especially for those with dynamic energy contracts. Reduced solar energy production leads to higher electricity costs. Last week, the average hourly energy price reached a record high. In Germany, this weather pattern is known as "Dunkelflaute," which the Dutch meteorological institute KNMI translates as "duisterluwte."
Hoebert notes that the cloudy conditions are expected to continue for a few more days. "The first signs of sunshine appear in the weather charts for Friday, but it won't be widespread."