The IJsselmeer, also known as Lake IJssel in English, is a closed off inland bay in the central Netherlands bordering the provinces of Flevoland, North Holland and Friesland. It covers an area of 1,100 km2 (420 sq mi) with an average depth of 4.5 m (15 ft).
The river IJssel flows into the IJsselmeer.The Markermeer is used as a freshwater reservoir and a buffer against floodwaters and droughts.
