Winter weather

Before a winter storm

• Snowstorms can lead to power cuts. A long-term power cut can affect your supply of water, heating, food and communications. Make sure you have these at home before the storm hits; see the link below.
• Make sure that computers, tablets, mobile phones and power banks (portable chargers) are fully charged when a storm warning is issued.
• Road traffic can be severely affected by winter weather, such as slippery conditions and poor visibility. It is therefore important to check the weather forecasts and the Swedish Transport Administration’s traffic information before setting out on the roads.
• If you are heading into the mountains, it is important to check the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute’s (SMHI) weather forecasts and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s avalanche forecasts. The weather can change rapidly. 
• If you are skiing in an area at risk of avalanches, you should be equipped with an avalanche transceiver and a shovel. Ski one at a time, so that the whole group does not risk being involved in an accident. Never ski alone.

During a winter storm

• Stay indoors. There is a risk that you could be injured by, for example, falling trees or branches brought down by snow and strong winds.
• Do not go near any power lines that have fallen to the ground; they can be life-threatening.
• Avoid using your car if you have to go out. Winter storms can cause disruption to traffic, and there is also a risk that, for example, trees might fall onto the road.
• Keep up to date with the SMHI’s weather forecasts and warnings throughout the storm.
• Tune in to Sveriges Radio P4 to stay informed about what is happening.
• If you are in the mountains, listen to the mountain weather forecast. When out on a hike, you must be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.
• Be aware of the risk of avalanches. The risk of avalanches can increase dramatically in just a few hours. If you are caught in an avalanche without training or protective equipment, your chances of survival are low.
• It is virtually impossible to outrun an avalanche. If you are caught in an avalanche, you should try to move towards the edges and up onto a ridge or similar terrain.