Broken drains, contaminated drinking water, water-filled basements and entire holiday homes that are partially underwater. The floods in Norrbotten have caused devastation for many.

Along the Torne River, this year's water flows have been the highest in 50 years. The floods have led to major problems with sewage systems, buildings and infrastructure. 

Roads have been closed and many residents have had water inundate their houses. But now the water levels are finally starting to drop and today SMHI (Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute) will downgrade the red warning for high flows to orange.

The falling levels mean that water facilities in the southern part of Övertorneå municipality can be restarted. However, the municipality has warned on their website that it must test the water and that residents are asked to boil their water before drinking it or using it for cooking.

The municipality also advises that there is no danger in showering in the water, but that those with small children should be careful so that the children do not accidentally swallow it.

The recommendation is valid until the municipality issues new information.