SMHI Issues Widespread Yellow Snow Warnings Across Central and Southern Sweden

The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has issued multiple yellow snow warnings across central and southern Sweden as the first significant snowfalls of the season hit the region on November 19, 2025. The warnings cover areas including Västra Götaland, central Svealand, Småland, and possibly Skåne in the coming hours.

Initial snow began falling Wednesday morning, primarily impacting the west coast and Skaraborg in Västra Götaland. Meteorologist Viktor Bergman noted that local accumulations of 5 to 10 centimeters are expected, with some variability. The snow has caused notable traffic disruptions, especially in Gothenburg where vehicles became stranded on Kallebäcksbacken, leading to long traffic jams. According to Antonius Gibson Knevel from the traffic control center, this has created significant challenges for drivers.

Further snowfall is forecast to spread over Örebro, Eskilstuna, Västerås, and Sala with slippery roads and poor visibility likely to affect travel conditions. Coastal areas in Gästrikland and Hälsingland also face the prospect of heavy snowfall. Evening forecasts predict increased snow intensity over southern Götaland regions, including Växjö, Halland, and northern Skåne.

According to meteorologist Nils Holmqvist, snow accumulations may locally reach up to 15 centimeters, particularly in southwest Lake Vänern areas. The hazardous conditions have already caused five vehicle collisions on the E20 highway in Partille, Västra Götaland, sending one person to hospital. Holmqvist stressed the high variability of the snowfall—some will experience heavy snow, others less. The yellow warning for Västra Götaland remains active until 7 PM on Wednesday.

SMHI's Caroline Vahlberg highlighted that the forecasts are continuously monitored and warning areas might be updated as the weather develops. The agency advises motorists to use winter tires and drive cautiously to mitigate risks associated with the snow and ice.

The snow events mark the first in many affected regions this season, signaling winter’s onset with potentially widespread impacts on traffic and daily life.