As Storm Floris approaches Sweden, Trafikverket has decided to close the Kinnekullebanan train line. The decision follows a yellow weather warning from SMHI, predicting strong winds and rain across southwestern Sweden. Authorities urge caution, advising the public to secure loose items and prepare for potential disruptions.
Sweden Prepares for Storm Floris: Train Line Closure Announced
Sweden Prepares for Storm Floris: Train Line Closure Announced
Storm Floris has battered the UK over the past day and is now heading towards Sweden. On Monday afternoon, Trafikverket held emergency meetings with SMHI and train companies, resulting in the decision to close a train line.
On Monday afternoon, Trafikverket held emergency meetings with both SMHI and train companies to determine which routes should be closed when Storm Floris is expected to hit Sweden on Tuesday.
"We are preparing with personnel ready to take action," says Peter Jonsson, press officer at Trafikverket.
Shortly after 5 PM, it was announced that Trafikverket decided to close the Kinnekullebanan, which serves parts of northern Bohuslän and Västergötland, stretching from Håkantorp to Gårdsjö, including Lidköping and Mariestad, reports TT.
The decision comes after SMHI issued a yellow warning for Tuesday over large parts of southwestern Sweden, from Kungsbacka in the south to Hällefors in the north.
Urging Caution
Storm Floris has wreaked havoc in the UK over the past day, resulting in canceled trains and closed parks.
"A deep low-pressure system is currently over the UK, and it's significantly windier there than expected in Sweden. However, we still expect rain across almost the entire country and strong winds," says meteorologist Ida Dahlström at SMHI.
"The windiest areas will be in western Götaland and further up in southern Värmland. In the region from Gothenburg northwards, wind gusts of 20 m/s and local storm gusts are expected."
The strong winds are expected to have consequences beyond public transport.
"At these wind speeds, branches and trees can break. If you are in a forested area, you must consider your safety and that of others, and on smaller roads, you should expect trees on the roads. There is also a risk of disruptions in the electricity and telecom networks," says Ida Dahlström.
SMHI urges people to secure loose items, such as trampolines and garden furniture. "Remember that temporary structures like scaffolding can also be blown away," the agency writes on its website.
Meteorologist Johan Groth at the weather institute Storm agrees.
"One should respect nature. If you have a boat exposed to southwest winds, it might be wise to bring it ashore. And you don't need to park your luxury car under a tree that looks half-rotten."