A lightning strike on a transformer box caused a major power outage that halted all train traffic between Groningen and Zuidhorn on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
Commuters were forced to use alternative transportation as the disruption began during severe thunderstorms over the weekend.
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Lightning struck infrastructure near Hoogkerk, according to rail operator ProRail.
Contractors worked overnight to replace multiple relays and energy supply components, but further damaged relays were subsequently discovered.
The ongoing issues continue to trigger signaling and switch failures on the impacted route.
ProRail stated that experts are actively drafting a new restoration plan to address the technical complications.
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Repairs are projected to last until at least 5:00 p. m.
"Despite a number of attempts to resolve the disruption, the problem has still not been fixed," ProRail wrote.
Regional transport operator Arriva has deployed replacement buses that run twice per hour between Groningen and Zuidhorn to accommodate stranded passengers.
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Local stopping trains continue to operate normally between Leeuwarden and Zuidhorn, though express services remain suspended.
