Severe Snowstorm Halts Traffic on E22 Highway Between Mönsterås and Oskarshamn

Sweden is experiencing an extreme snowstorm causing significant disruptions on the E22 highway between Mönsterås and Oskarshamn. A vital public message (VMA) has been issued for Högsbo, Mönsterås, and Oskarshamn due to long traffic jams and hazardous conditions. The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) reported that the E22 was fully closed between Oskarshamn and Ålem Norra early Saturday morning due to the severe weather.

The snowstorm has brought up to half a meter of snow, strong northeast winds, fallen trees, and downed power lines, complicating travel and emergency response efforts. Rescue services deployed tracked vehicles after some emergency vehicles became stuck in the snow. Magnus Alm from Trafikverket described the situation as "extreme," urging the public to avoid roads unless absolutely necessary and to prepare for possible stranding by carrying food, water, and warm clothing.

The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has issued orange and yellow weather warnings throughout the weekend for the eastern coastal areas, forecasting worsening conditions before improving late Saturday morning. Emergency services continue to work intensively to manage the situation and protect residents.

This severe snowstorm has brought the region to a standstill, with authorities cautioning against travel and emphasizing safety measures to avoid life-threatening situations in the harsh winter conditions.