Swedish Transport Administration closes train routes in heatwave over fire risk

The Swedish Transport Administration decided on Tuesday to enter enhanced emergency mode while also closing certain local train routes.

This is due to an increased risk of sunstroke, but also fire when sparks from the trains are generated that can ignite nearby vegetation, says Johan Nilsson Holmqvist, press communicator at the Swedish Transport Administration.

In Värmland, the route between Sunne and Torsby will be closed, and in Småland, approximately 15 routes will be closed or have their speed reduced due to the heat.

Road traffic is also affected as the heat increases the risk of so-called “bleeding asphalt.” This means the road softens, expands and black shiny spots rise from the asphalt - something that can cause skidding.