Tuesday, August 8, 2023
Southern Scandinavia, encompassing Sweden and Norway, is grappling with heavy rainfall, leading to a train derailment, flooding roads, and widespread disruptions. Meteorologists from both countries have issued red alerts, the highest warning level, forecasting an extremely intense weather system that could bring the most significant rainfall in decades.
The affected areas might experience a month’s worth of normal rainfall within 24 hours, potentially causing the worst floods in Norway in 25 years and Sweden in 50 years.
In eastern Sweden, a train with over 100 passengers derailed due to the rain-induced partial erosion of a railway embankment. This incident resulted in three injuries, requiring hospitalization. The severe weather has also led to power outages, disrupted ferry services, air travel, and train operations, affecting daily life.
The low-pressure system, known as “Hans,” struck Sweden before reaching Norway. Authorities have cautioned residents to steer clear of rivers, steep slopes, and unnecessary travel due to the risk of extensive property damage. The situation is expected to persist for several days.
In neighboring Denmark, heavy rainfall prompted a lower-level yellow alert, while Finland anticipates potential severe thunderstorms later in the week. The adverse weather conditions have impacted power prices in the region, which heavily relies on hydropower for electricity. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere of Norway attributed the extreme weather events to climate change, emphasizing the increasing frequency of such occurrences.
Tags: norway, Norway tourism, scandinavia, Sweden, Visit Norway
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
