Storm Amy Causes Widespread Damage Across Sweden with Fallen Trees and Power Outages

Storm Amy swept across Sweden on October 4, bringing hurricane-strength winds, heavy rains, and widespread disruptions. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) issued an orange warning, highlighting gusts as high as 35 meters per second near Vinga and 33 meters per second in northern Halland. Coastal areas including Gothenburg and Kungsbacka experienced hurricane-strength winds, while inland regions such as Västergötland and Värmland faced around 29,500 customers suffering power outages, most of which were restored by evening.

Severe impacts included a 15-meter oak tree, estimated to be 400-500 years old, crashing onto a family home in Alingsås, causing significant material damage but no injuries. Public transportation was heavily disrupted: train services across Skåne and Västra Götaland were suspended or canceled due to fallen trees blocking rail lines, and ferry services in the Gothenburg archipelago were affected. Air travel also suffered delays, especially at Copenhagen Airport where a runway was closed due to strong winds.

Emergency services reported numerous calls related to wind damage, including fallen trees and debris blocking roads. While initial fears projected severe disruptions, some rescue officials noted the situation was calmer than expected. Nonetheless, Ellevio, the electricity provider, doubled field staff to manage high risks of power outages.

Storm Amy was the first major low-pressure system of the season, bringing challenging weather conditions to western and southern Sweden before moving eastward, with heavy rain and persistent winds forecast to continue, especially in northern areas such as Västernorrland, which suffered prior flooding in early September.

"We urge people to stay indoors unless travel is essential," advised rescue service officer Mats Gränsmark, emphasizing safety amid the hazardous conditions. Meteorologist Toni Fuentes described the storm as a significant weather event marking the season's early challenges.