SMHI Issues Fresh Alert as Heavy Snowfall Sweeps Across Sweden

A new weather front originating from the North Sea has moved northeast over southern and central Sweden, bringing significant precipitation. Initially manifesting as rain and wet snow, the precipitation is gradually turning into heavy snowfall as it advances inland.

The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has indicated that the affected areas could see precipitation levels equivalent to 15 millimeters of rain, which, in snow form, could result in accumulations of up to 15 centimeters. While temperatures in northern Sweden remain below freezing, they are notably milder compared to recent weeks. This means that the snow currently falling is denser and heavier than in previous cold spells, potentially increasing the risk of disruption.

Due to these developments, SMHI has issued multiple weather warnings to alert the public and authorities. Earlier warnings for icy conditions expired on Wednesday morning, but a new yellow warning was activated for Gotland, where heavy snowfall is expected to cause traffic disruptions until early evening. Similar warnings have been issued for western and central Svealand, including the Mälaren Valley, as well as for northeastern Gävleborg County and eastern Västernorrland County. These regions were notably impacted by previous severe weather events this winter. The current warnings for these areas are set to remain in effect until Thursday morning.

In addition, a yellow warning is in place until late evening for regions extending from southern Gästrikland down to northeastern Östergötland, which includes both Uppsala and Stockholm. The main concern is the potential for transportation difficulties and hazardous road conditions due to accumulating snow.

Another yellow warning, this time for sudden icy conditions, was issued for parts of eastern and central Götaland, but this is expected to expire by midday. SMHI has reassessed temperature fluctuations and determined that ground temperatures have now risen above freezing in many parts of the country, reducing the risk of sudden ice formation. The recent cold spell had left much of the ground frozen, but the warmer air has helped surface temperatures reach up to four degrees Celsius in some areas.

Looking ahead, SMHI forecasts milder weather across southern Sweden for the remainder of the week, with precipitation expected to fall predominantly as rain rather than snow. Currently, no additional weather warnings are anticipated; however, the situation remains dynamic, and SMHI advises that sudden changes, such as unexpected icy conditions, may still arise with little notice.

Authorities are urging residents and travelers in affected regions to stay updated with the latest weather information and to exercise caution on the roads, particularly in areas where heavy snowfall or ice may create hazardous conditions. Public services and transportation providers are also monitoring the developments closely to ensure safety and minimize disruption during the adverse weather period.