Wildfire situation improves after rain in central Sweden
After nearly two weeks of fires in east-central Sweden, several hundred homes are now safe to return to but efforts to fight and contain fires around the country continue, says David Sundström of the Civil Contingencies Agency.
Some international firefighters who have helped battle the flames in the Dalarna region and elsewhere are now leaving Sweden. Aerial and on-the-ground firefighting efforts plus milder weather conditions have contributed to a much improved situation in the worst-affected areas of the country.
Yet the firefighting efforts continue and it is still important that members of the public exercise caution, Sundström told Radio Sweden.
In Ljusdal in Gävleborg, fires continue in Ängra and Enskogen, but they are slowly being brought under control. No new fires have been reported in Norrbotten (Northern Sweden).
More rain is forecast, but scattered across different areas, and with a risk that lightning might ignite new fires. Heavy rains Sunday led to the passage leading to the platforms at Uppsala Central Station flooding (east-central Sweden), affecting rail services.
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: This year’s exceptional heat is becoming the new normal, scientists warn, CBC News
Finland: Crews contain fresh wildfires in western Finland, Yle News
Norway: European Arctic swelters under tropical temperatures, breaks heat records, The Independent Barents Observer
Russia: Forest fires are raging across the Barents region, The Independent Barents Observer
Sweden: Forest fires will become more frequent as climate warms, says scientist, Radio Sweden
United States: Alaska’s firefighters are ready for wildfire season, Alaska Public Media
