UPDATE: 11:40
Trafikverket reports that a truck towing operation is causing major traffic problems on the E4 at the Skellefteå interchange in both directions. The incident has blocked one lane, leading to significant delays. A traffic warning was issued at 11:18 AM on Thursday, and traffic is expected to be affected until 12:15 PM.
UPDATE: 11:10
A selection of photos from snow-hit Skellefteå.
UPDATE: THURS, 10:55:
A car has crashed into the median barrier on the E4 north of Jävre, heading towards Skellefteå. Trafikverket warns of significant traffic disruptions.
UPDATE: THURS, 07:55:
Skellefteå Buss's communications and marketing manager writes that the ploughing has worked very well in the morning and traffic is running as usual.
"Some disruptions may occur, but overall it's going smoothly."
The snowfall in Skellefteå has slowed down considerably since last night.
The rest of the day it is forecast to snow less heavily, under a centimeter per hour from nine o'clock.
UPDATE: WEDS, 17:25:
Initially, the warning only applied to the area between Skellefteå and Umeå, but a while ago the area affected was expanded. The warning now also extends into southern Norrbotten.
UPDATE: WEDS, 15:55:
Skellefteå Buss is expecting disruptions tomorrow, Thursday, due to the storm that is expected this evening.
"There may be traffic disruptions, primarily on Thursday morning. Stay tuned for updates on the traffic situation. Route 207 will initially operate on E4, as we assess that the weather will hit road 870 hard," writes Skellefteå bus on its website.
UPDATE: TUES, 16:00
A weather warning is in effect from 8 p.m. Wednesday until 9 a.m. Thursday. The area covers from south of Umeå, to just north of Skellefteå.
SMHI reports persistent and occasionally heavy snowfall. "The snowfall is expected to be most intense late Wednesday evening and into early Thursday morning, gradually diminishing in intensity afterward," according to their website.
Snowfall accumulation of 10–20 centimetres is expected by Thursday morning. In a small area between Skellefteå and Lövånger, local accumulations could reach up to 30 centimetres.
SMHI warns of the following risks:
- Travel times will likely increase due to slippery roads, poor visibility, and snow accumulation. Plan extra time for travel and adjust driving speed to match road conditions and visibility.
- Traffic disruptions are likely due to snow-covered roads, accidents, or stranded vehicles.
- Public transportation may experience delays or cancellations.
- With temperatures near freezing, areas with overhead power and telecommunications lines may experience service disruptions.