Weather warnings

The weather warning system

The SMHI’s weather warning system is based on the potential consequences or disruptions that the weather may cause. 20 millimetres of snow within 12 hours can trigger different warning levels depending on where in the country the snow falls or at what time of year it occurs. Heavy snowfall in November in a major city in southern Sweden has completely different consequences than if it were to occur in the middle of winter in the mountains of northern Lapland.

Warnings are issued as yellow, orange and red, with red being the most serious.

Yellow warning

Some damage may occur to property and the environment. Disruptions to some public services. Individuals or certain groups may be seriously affected. Those living in or visiting vulnerable areas, or belonging to a risk group, should take preventive measures.

Things to bear in mind:

• Monitor weather developments particularly closely.
• Take appropriate preventive measures if you live in or are visiting a vulnerable area.

Orange warning

An orange warning indicates that the weather may pose a danger to the public, cause serious damage to property and the environment, and disrupt public services. Individuals or groups who are particularly vulnerable may be very seriously affected.

Please bear the following in mind:

• Avoid exposing yourself to the weather.
• Take appropriate measures to minimise the impact on the environment, human life and property.

Red warning

A red warning indicates that the weather conditions may pose a major danger to the public, cause very serious damage to property and the environment, and result in widespread disruption. The public should completely refrain from any activities that involve exposure to the elements.

Please bear the following in mind:

• Completely avoid exposure to the weather.
• Take preventative measures to minimise the impact on the environment, human life and property.

Examples of warnings

SMHI issues warnings for many different types of weather events, such as wind, rain, slippery conditions, high water levels or high temperatures.

Advisories

In addition to warnings, SMHI also issues advisories. These may be issued for two reasons:

1. When only certain vulnerable groups in society are affected. An example of this is an advisory regarding high temperatures.
2. When there is an indirect danger that may arise due to prevailing weather conditions. An example is an advisory for grass fires or forest fires where the weather has caused the forests and land to become very dry.

Where to find the warnings

Weather warnings are published on SMHI.se and in the SMHI weather app up to three days before the weather event is expected to occur. The warnings are also read out on Sveriges Radio as part of the weather report.

Krisinformation publishes a selection of warnings and advisories on Krisinformation.se and in the Krisinformation app.