A seasoned rescue operator with nearly five years of experience has issued crucial advice for winter drivers as heavy snowfall continues to disrupt traffic across southern and central Sweden. Mathias Back, who specializes in recovering heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, emphasized the mental preparation required for winter driving conditions.
"We prepare ourselves mentally for these situations," Back explained. "During heavy snowfall like this, we work until the job is done, which can mean long days and nights."
Meteorologists reported highly variable snowfall patterns across affected regions. Some areas experienced substantial accumulation while others saw minimal precipitation. The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute issued yellow warnings for snowfall in five areas across southern and central Sweden during Wednesday, with three warnings remaining in effect by evening.
Eastern parts of Svealand can expect 5-10 centimeters of snow, while some locations in Götaland and along the Uppland coast may receive up to 15 centimeters. The weather immediately caused traffic problems Wednesday morning, with multiple incidents reported across major highways.
In Partille, five vehicles collided on the E20 highway. Several accidents were reported along the E18 in Ă–rebro County. During the morning, approximately ten vehicles were involved in a multi-car crash on Highway 68 outside Norberg.
Road closures included Highway 26 north of SmĂĄlandsstenar, shut down in both directions due to an accident involving multiple passenger cars and a truck. The E18 between Arboga and Ă–rebro experienced significant delays after several trucks became stuck in slippery conditions during lunch hours.
Anders Johansson described one incident: "We were watching television when we heard a loud crash. We saw the truck in our yard and immediately called emergency services."
Meteorologist Marcus Sjöstedt warned that Swedes should remain prepared for continued challenging conditions in the coming days. The Transportation Administration has increased its preparedness level to address road problems through snow clearance and anti-skid measures.
Peter Jonsson, a communications officer with the Transportation Administration, stated in a live broadcast: "We are expanding our preparedness as more snow is expected in southeastern parts. We've already received an increased number of incident reports, and we anticipate disruptions continuing through the evening and tomorrow."
He advised residents across much of southern Sweden to allow extra travel time and exercise caution on the roads. The situation highlights the annual challenge Sweden faces with sudden winter weather transitions, particularly affecting drivers unprepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Rescue professionals recommend that winter drivers carry emergency supplies, ensure proper winter tires, maintain increased following distances, and check weather forecasts before traveling. Many accidents occur when drivers underestimate how quickly conditions can deteriorate during Swedish winters, particularly during the transition seasons.
The persistent issues on major highways like E4, E18, and E20 demonstrate the vulnerability of Sweden's transportation network to sudden weather changes, despite the country's extensive winter maintenance capabilities. Transportation officials continue to monitor conditions and adjust response efforts as the snow system moves across the region.