Storms Johannes and Anna Cause Widespread Disruptions and Fatalities Across Sweden

In late December, two severe storms, Johannes followed by Anna, battered Sweden, causing significant power outages, multiple fatalities, transportation disruptions, and emergency responses across the affected regions, particularly in northern and central parts of the country.

Storm Johannes alone left over 40,000 homes without electricity, with Gävleborg County being the hardest hit area. Among the tragic consequences was the death of Sven Johansson, 66, who died when a tree fell on him while he was assisting restoration efforts in Utansjö near Härnösand. Despite immediate resuscitation attempts, he was pronounced dead at Sundsvalls sjukhus. His colleagues at Härnösand Energi och Miljö remembered him as a kind and helpful individual deeply dedicated to aiding others.

Following Johannes, Storm Anna brought an orange warning from SMHI, predicting up to 40 centimeters of snow and hazardous conditions across Svealand that persisted through the weekend. Authorities urged residents to avoid traveling, especially in areas like Västerbotten, central Sweden, Gotland, and eastern Skåne. To assist stranded drivers, Trafikverket deployed bandvagnar in Gävle and Uppsala. However, disruptions extended to air travel, with around 70 delayed and 17 canceled flights at Arlanda Airport, along with delays at Landvetter Airport.

Among notable responses, 24-year-old Cecilia Linding used a bandvagn to safely transport healthcare workers in Söderhamn amidst dangerous winter conditions, emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring medical personnel could reach their jobs.

Power outages have persisted since December 27, particularly in the Gävleborg region near Ockelbo, where residents have endured up to seven days without electricity due to damaged power lines complicated by heavy snow burying fallen cables. Utilities company Ellevio is providing compensation for customers severely affected. Locals described increasingly difficult conditions, with long, dark nights and logistical challenges such as having to travel to relatives’ homes for charging devices and basic needs.

The storms have led to at least four fatalities and left many grappling with ongoing hardships. Authorities and communities continue efforts to restore services and manage the severe weather’s impact, though residents face uncertainty about when full recovery will occur.