Severe Snowstorm Warnings Disrupt Traffic and Schools Across Sweden

Sweden is currently grappling with severe weather conditions marked by heavy snowfall and strong winds, prompting multiple weather warnings and causing significant disruptions to traffic, public transport, and schooling. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has issued several snow warnings across the country, including a red warning for Ångermanland and orange warnings for regions like Västernorrland, Bohuslän, and the Gothenburg area.

In Ångermanland, residents face the most severe conditions with expected snowfall of 40 to 60 centimeters accompanied by strong east-southeast winds creating hazardous snowdrifts. Areas affected include Härnösand, Kramfors, and Örnsköldsvik, with the red weather alert—SMHI’s highest level—advising people not to travel. As a result, Din Tur has canceled all bus services in Sundsvall and surrounding locales like Matfors and Njurunda. Several private schools in Sundsvall have closed, while public schools remain operational for students who can safely reach them. Conny Pedersén, a municipal spokesperson, encouraged parents to keep children home if possible and reassured that students will not be penalized for absences due to the weather.

Other regions report severe impacts as well. Västernorrland and Bohuslän are under orange warnings with slippery roads, poor visibility, and ongoing snow showers. Bus services are halted in parts of Västernorrland and Värmland, and city traffic in Hudiksvall and Söderhamn has come to a standstill. Tram lines in Gothenburg’s Biskopsgården district faced disruptions after a derailment, causing indefinite suspension of services.

Hälsingland confronted multiple traffic accidents amid heavy snow, including a significant collision involving several vehicles in Enånger. Fortunately, rescue operations report no injuries, though clearing the E4 highway remains challenging. Authorities have praised drivers for cautious behavior but warn of worsening conditions and advise avoiding non-essential travel.

SMHI is considering upgrading the weather warning for the Norrland coast given ongoing forecasts of heavy snowfall. Meanwhile, the snowstorm continues to affect vital societal functions and daily lives across Sweden, with officials urging caution and preparedness.

As Sweden faces this intense snow weather, disruption to transportation, school closures, and traffic hazards are likely to persist, signaling the need for continued vigilance and adherence to official weather advisories.