Storm Johannes Claims Two Lives in Sweden Amid Widespread Disruptions

Storm Johannes has severely impacted parts of Sweden, resulting in two fatalities and extensive disruptions to power and transportation. One man was found dead beneath a fallen tree on a ski trail near Kungsberget in Sandviken, while another man employed by the municipal energy company Hemab died from injuries sustained when a tree fell on him during storm cleanup work in Härnösand. Despite being rushed to Sundsvall Hospital, the second victim could not be saved, with colleagues now receiving support following the tragic event.

Thousands of trees have fallen due to the storm, particularly affecting Gävleborg and the Norrland coast. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) issued warnings ranging from yellow to red, indicating varying degrees of public risk, with red signaling very serious dangers. Authorities have maintained an Important Message to the Public (VMA) for several northern counties, valid through Sunday.

The storm has caused power outages affecting over 40,000 households in Sweden, especially in Västernorrland, Jämtland, and Gävleborg, while over 170,000 households in neighboring Finland also lost electricity. Major roads like the E4 are blocked by fallen trees, and key transport routes, including the Högakustenbron and Sundsvallsbron bridges, have been closed due to safety concerns. Public transportation has been disrupted with cancellations of bus and train services, compounded by mobile network outages in some regions.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the deadly tree falls during the storm and cleanup efforts. The situation remains serious with ongoing travel challenges and safety risks from ongoing strong winds. SMHI has not extended the orange warning but continues to monitor conditions closely. Officials urge the public to avoid unnecessary travel and heed weather advisories as recovery operations proceed.