Sweden Faces Heatwave as Temperatures Soar Amid Forest Fire Risks
Sweden is bracing for soaring temperatures and a heightened risk of forest fires this week as a heatwave hits southern regions.
Key Points
- • Temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius in southern Sweden.
- • SMHI warns of health risks due to sustained high temperatures.
- • Severe fire risks in southeastern regions including Öland and Skåne.
- • Cooling trend anticipated by the weekend, but fire risks remain high.
In Sweden, heatwave conditions are intensifying with temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius in southern Götaland and southeastern regions this week. Meteorologist Max Lindberg Stoltz from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has issued warnings about these extreme temperatures, especially for vulnerable groups, noting that sustained heat above 26 degrees could pose health risks. Cities such as Helsingborg, Karlskrona, and Kalmar are forecasted to experience some of the highest temperatures.
This significant warm-up is attributed to a high-pressure system that has settled over the country, bringing sunny and dry conditions. Målilla, a noted hot spot, is also expected to see temperatures rise sharply. A previous record for this year reached 33.6 degrees Celsius in Skellefteå on July 24.
Accompanying the rising temperatures is a heightened risk of forest fires. Warnings have been issued for southeastern regions, including Öland, parts of Skåne, and near the lakes Vättern and Vänern, urging residents to be cautious with outdoor activities like grilling as dry conditions prevail. Although a cooling trend is predicted by the weekend, with temperatures dipping to around 20 degrees Celsius, fire risks remain a significant concern this week due to the dry heat.