Train Operations in Northern Sweden Adjusted Amid Ongoing Heatwave

In response to an unprecedented heatwave affecting northern Sweden, Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration, has mandated that trains operate with increased caution to mitigate the heightened fire risk posed by dry conditions. Areas such as Sundsvall, Östersund, Boden, Ånge, and Ljusdal are particularly impacted by these changes.

The harsh climate conditions have made the ground extremely dry, raising concerns about the possibility of sparks from train tracks igniting fires. Ulrika Geeraedts, the acting director-general of Trafikverket, emphasized the importance of safety over punctuality, stating, "We want trains to be punctual, but the fire risk weighs heavier."

To reduce spark generation, trains will adopt a 'passive driving' strategy, which includes limiting full acceleration in uphill sections and moderating braking on downhill segments. This operational change is set to remain in effect until midnight on Saturday, with the possibility of extension should the dry conditions persist. Meteorological forecasts from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) indicate that much of Norrland could face a fire risk classified as high to extreme, particularly threatening on Thursday afternoon.