In Västernorrland, Sweden, severe weather has caused significant damage, with homes at risk of collapse due to flooding. Anton Eriksson's property was heavily affected, forcing his family to evacuate. Meanwhile, Ylva Mårtensson's farm was saved with community help. As more rain is forecasted, residents brace for further challenges, highlighting the region's strong community spirit.
Severe Weather Strikes Again: Homes in Västernorrland at Risk
Severe Weather Strikes Again: Homes in Västernorrland at Risk
Parts of Anton's property were washed away, and his house was at risk of collapsing. Ylva's farm in Kubbe was flooded. Now, SMHI warns of new heavy rainfall over Västernorrland.
When the water surged towards the house in Undrom, Sollefteå, Anton Eriksson lost his patio and large parts of his yard. He was forced to evacuate with his family.
The masses of water threatened to take the house with them as the nearby stream expanded by tens of meters.
Anton Eriksson describes last Sunday—when the heavy rain pounded Västernorrland—and the following days as a "catastrophe."
- The house is still standing, but much of the yard is gone. The stream, which is usually one and a half meters wide, is now 15 meters. Everything is just washed away, he says.
During the week, 70 truckloads of crushed rock were brought to the property to secure the area around the house. The family has now been able to move back home.
- It was an enormous relief. But it has been very emotionally distressing for the whole family, says Anton, who has lived in the house for 20 years.
Ylva's Farm Flooded
The downpours hit many in Västernorrland hard, especially in Kubbe north of Bredbyn. There, the Anundsjöån river rose by four meters, and about 15 houses were flooded.
Ylva Mårtensson's farm was flooded—but with the help of neighbors, friends, and family, they managed to save the residential house.
- We got help to build a barrier to keep the water away from the house. Without it, the house wouldn't have fared as well as it did, says Ylva.
She explains that her brother-in-law and sister-in-law's farm received help from the rescue service and several farmers to move bales that were floating around after the flood.
More Rain on the Way
SMHI has issued a new yellow warning for heavy rainfall over Västernorrland, starting at midnight on Monday. The ground is already saturated, and the risk of high flows is significant.
- Of course, you're worried, but as it looks here, it can't get worse. Now it's probably worse for others. But with all the efforts made, I think we'll manage the next round, says Anton.
Ylva says they have prepared by keeping generators and pumps ready. The barrier around the house remains and can be reinforced if needed.
- Now we don't have the same stomachache as on Monday evening and Tuesday. The water level has dropped, so we now have a margin to withstand an increase. But the worry remains.
Community and Major Efforts
The rescue service has been in the village and other affected areas throughout the week to pump out basements, build barriers, save belongings—and even sheep that were stranded. But Ylva particularly wants to highlight the villagers:
- What a community! We have received so much support from friends and family.
Anton agrees:
- Everyone you know has helped, but even people you have no idea who they are have called and offered help, just asking if they can do anything. Isn't it incredible? It gives hope for life, says Anton.
The company Uniper, responsible for the dam that released a lot of water during the downpour, has, according to Anton, promised to cover all costs associated with the destruction.