Severe Snowstorm Jeopardizes Björklöven vs Västerås Hockeyallsvenskan Match

January 9, 2026 10:48am

A red-flagged snowstorm forces Västerås to halt travel 20 miles from Umeå, putting the Björklöven hockey match at risk of postponement.

Key details

• Severe snowstorm has prompted red weather warnings from SMHI in northern Sweden.
• Västerås team is stranded in Sundsvall, about 20-25 miles from Umeå.
• Safety concerns have led the team to stop traveling and spend the night in Sundsvall.
• A final decision on the match's status will depend on weather developments tomorrow.

The upcoming Hockeyallsvenskan match between Björklöven and Västerås is under threat due to a severe snowstorm impacting northern Sweden. Västerås's team has been forced to pause their journey in Sundsvall, approximately 20 to 25 miles from Umeå, the match venue, as travel has become too dangerous. Coach Peter Andersson emphasized safety first, stating, "We cannot go further and do not dare to travel any further either," highlighting that red weather warnings issued by the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) cover the travel route.

The team had to alter their original travel plans and will spend the night in Sundsvall while closely monitoring weather conditions. Discussions with league officials are ongoing, with Andersson mentioning, "We had to change the plan," and that a final decision about continuing to Umeå depends on whether the severe weather warnings remain in effect.

The match is currently scheduled to start at 19:00 tomorrow, but with travel uncertain, postponement is a distinct possibility. The priority remains the safety of players and staff amid the hazardous conditions sweeping across the region.

This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.