Sweden is set to experience a heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius in many parts of the country this week. Meteorologist Johan Groth from Stormgeo predicts that the warmest days will be mid-week, with the eastern half of the country seeing the highest temperatures. However, the heat brings a heightened risk of forest fires, prompting caution from SMHI.
Sweden Braces for 30-Degree Heatwave This Week
Sweden Braces for 30-Degree Heatwave This Week
For many, the vacation is over, but not the summer. Temperatures could soar up to 30 degrees in large parts of the country.
"It will be quite warm for mid-August," says meteorologist Johan Groth.
Almost the entire country will experience high temperatures mid-week as a high-pressure ridge moves in.
Sunny and warm weather will dominate Wednesday, according to Johan Groth, meteorologist at Stormgeo.
"In southern Götaland, temperatures will reach 27 degrees in some areas and at least 25 degrees in Svealand and southeastern Norrland."
When the Heat Peaks
The heat will maintain its grip on the country on Thursday, peaking with temperatures possibly reaching 29 or even 30 degrees in some places.
"The eastern half of the country will see the highest temperatures. I imagine it will be hottest around the classic Målilla," says Johan Groth.
The Småland town of Målilla often holds summer heat records. Sweden's highest temperature, 38 degrees, was recorded there in June 1947.
This year's heat record is 33.6 degrees, measured in Skellefteå on July 24.
"Not Just Drought"
But no heat lasts forever. By Friday, it will cool down again. Over the weekend, temperatures will hover around 20 degrees, with a potential rise back to 25 degrees by Monday.
"Then we might be up to 25 again," says Johan Groth.
The intense heat, however, brings certain dangers. SMHI has warned of a high risk of forest fires in the southeastern half of the country, from Östhammar down to Malmö. The risk is also significant around both Vättern and Vänern.
This means caution is advised when lighting fires and grilling outdoors.
"But the air is a bit unstable, so there might be some rain here and there, so it's not just drought all the time," says Johan Groth.