Avalanche Risk High in Swedish Mountains: Stay Clear of Steep Slopes

After a period with plus degrees, the snow in the Swedish mountains is unusually wet and unreliable. The avalanche risk is significant and I advise everyone to keep a safe distance from steep slopes, says Stefan Mårtensson at the Environmental Protection Agency's avalanche forecasts website.

» Published: April 18 2025

Avalanche Risk High in Swedish Mountains: Stay Clear of Steep Slopes
Photo: Nisse Schmidt / TT

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Avalanche warning applies from western Härjedalsfjällen up to Abisko at Riksgränsen.

In our world, there are hazardous conditions right now. The risk of avalanches is significant, which is the second-highest level on the avalanche scale, says Stefan Mårtensson.

He explains that avalanches become larger and reach further when the snow is as wet as it is now.

The wet snow can drag along very large snow masses that can break trees and destroy buildings. There is also a risk that hanging avalanches are triggered.

Härjedalen and Jämtland are most exposed, but avalanches have occurred along the entire mountain range during the night to Good Friday.

It has rumbled everywhere at our observation sites, says Stefan Mårtensson.

The avalanche warning will persist until at least Easter Sunday.

On Sunday, colder weather is expected, and then the snow can freeze together and become more stable again. But the prognosis is uncertain.

The advice is to avoid staying near steep slopes.

And don't forget to look out for hanging avalanches. Also, think about the fact that rain and sun can quickly worsen the situation further, says Stefan Mårtensson.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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