Severe Snowstorm Hits Skåne with Orange Warning and Emergency Preparations

Skåne is facing a significant snowstorm with up to 20-30 centimeters of snowfall expected from Thursday through Friday, accompanied by strong winds. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has issued an orange weather warning specifically for southeastern Skåne, effective from 5 PM Thursday. Meteorologist Moa Hallberg highlighted that southeastern Skåne will experience the heaviest snowfall, raising concerns about traffic complications from snowdrifts and reduced visibility.

The hazardous weather conditions have already caused two traffic accidents on the E65 highway, leading to a closure of the road leading towards Malmö with no current reopening time estimated. Henrik Nilstam, head of Trafikverket’s unit in Skåne, reported that three snow clearing vehicles and four heavy-duty tow trucks have been deployed in the region to manage the snow and assist stranded vehicles. Drivers have been urged by police to plan their journeys carefully and reduce speeds to adapt to slippery and dangerous road conditions.

Additional measures include instructions to ferry operators to inform truck drivers about the difficult conditions upon arrival. Nearby Göteborg is also bracing for winter challenges, deploying all 350 snow plows as up to 20 centimeters of snow is forecast there by Thursday evening.

These concerted efforts by authorities aim to mitigate disruptions and ensure public safety amid the ongoing severe winter storm.