AMSTERDAM – The only race that did start was cancelled after a few hours. The Dutch Skating Association has advised people not to skate on natural ice as it is no longer safe.

The Viking ice skate manufacturer sold almost 75,000 pairs of skates over the last two weeks and the company says it is almost completely out of stock. A company spokesperson says it has been exceptionally busy over the last two weeks and customers were still lining up to buy new skates today despite the thaw. Many people believe the sudden rise in temperature is just temporary and that they will be able to take to the ice again in a few days time.

[Radio Netherlands/ Expatica]