Severe storms in northern Sweden have caused train derailments and road washouts, prompting Infrastructure Minister Andreas Carlson to warn of potential copper thefts. The public is urged to monitor railway tracks for suspicious activity. The storms have severely impacted transportation, with many roads damaged and some still underwater. Authorities are working to restore infrastructure, but no timeline for completion is available.
Copper Theft Warning Issued After Severe Northern Storms
Copper Theft Warning Issued After Severe Northern Storms
The storm in the north has led to derailed trains and washed-out roads. Now, Infrastructure Minister Andreas Carlson (KD) warns that copper thefts may increase.
– I want to address the public and appeal for vigilance around tracks, he said at a press conference.
The weekend's heavy downpours have hit northern Sweden hard. Among other incidents, a freight train loaded with ammunition derailed outside Örnsköldsvik, which will significantly impact train traffic for the foreseeable future.
At the same time, the risk of copper thefts is increasing, leading the Swedish Transport Administration to implement extra surveillance.
– I want to address the public and appeal for vigilance around tracks that are not currently used by the railway and to report any unusual patterns, said Andreas Carlson at a press conference in Härnösand on Monday.
"Many Are Affected"
Several roads were also washed away by the heavy rains. Some stretches are still underwater and need to be pumped. In Härnösand, a man in his 70s died after being trapped in a landslide.
– Many are affected. My thoughts are primarily with the relatives of the deceased man, said Andreas Carlson.
He also urges people to listen to the authorities' advice and avoid entering landslide areas. Those traveling should also check which roads are open, according to Carlson.
No Forecast for Reconstruction
About 40 roads are so damaged that they have been completely closed or have limited accessibility.
– Resources are being brought in from different parts of Sweden, and we have activated crisis management. We also have all the financial resources needed to handle the work now and minimize similar events in the future, says Carlson.
At the same time, he emphasizes that there is no forecast for when the infrastructure will be rebuilt.