Sweden Battles Extreme Cold Snap and Hazardous Travel Amid February Snowstorm

Sweden is currently gripped by an extreme cold snap, with temperatures plunging to as low as minus 39 degrees Celsius in the Lapplandsfjällen region as of February 6, 2026. This severe cold is caused by an unusual meteorological setup: a low jet stream situated far south over Europe blocks warmer airflows from the Mediterranean and Africa, while a stable high-pressure system over Northern Europe prevents other weather patterns from entering Scandinavia, according to meteorologist Lasse Rydqvist.

Several weather stations have reported temperatures below minus 30 degrees Celsius not only in the far north but also across areas like Västerbotten and Härjedalen. The cold weather is forecasted to persist through most of February with little relief, although some sunshine may occur over the weekend.

Meanwhile, southern Sweden faces challenges from a recent snowstorm that has rendered roads icy and dangerous. Authorities have issued warnings against driving, citing multiple traffic accidents including on the Öresundsbron bridge connecting Skåne and Denmark. School bus services were canceled and train operations were disrupted due to the hazardous conditions.

Drivers like Jessica Hansen have described roads as “snorhalt” (extremely slippery) with snowdrifts complicating travel. Nurse Nikolaus Bjarstedt added that roads remain deceptively slick despite the snowfall. Fortunately, despite the multiple incidents, no serious injuries have been reported so far.

This combination of intense cold in the north and treacherous travel conditions in the south highlights the widespread impact of the winter weather on Sweden's daily life and infrastructure. Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay updated on weather and travel advisories as the cold snap and snowstorm continue to affect the country.