Storm Hans Causes Major Disruptions to Train Traffic in Sweden
High water flows, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, mud, and undermined tracks have wreaked havoc on train services across Sweden following the onslaught of storm Hans. The aftermath of the storm will continue to impact train traffic for a substantial period.
In the wake of the disaster, a train derailment occurred in Hudiksvall on Monday, caused by the massive amounts of water undermining the embankment. The Swedish Transport Administration is currently working on constructing a road outside Hudiksvall to restore train services. However, the road still lacks sufficient bearing capacity for heavy vehicles. Felicia Danielsson, the press communicator for Trafikverket, stated that the train route is expected to be restored earlier than originally planned, namely on 18 August.
Sections between Hudiksvall and Söderhamn have been closed due to the damage caused by the storm. However, replacement buses will be available to transport passengers until further notice. Martina Nord, the press communicator at SJ, warned travellers of extended travel times of 30 to 60 minutes and advised them to have ample time margins due to detours and slower bus speeds.
The closed train section between Östersund and Duved has been heavily affected by high water flows, with the section remaining closed. Fallen trees have also disrupted the contact lines on the Mittbanan between Bräcke and Östersund. Although replacement buses have been ordered, confirmation is still pending.
The impacts of storm Hans are not limited to specific areas. Western Sweden, particularly the West Coast Railway between Varberg and Falkenberg, has also experienced disruptions and high water levels. The Swedish Transport Administration expects these problems to be resolved by midnight on Friday.
Bohusbanan has suffered from both flooding and electrical faults, leading to further disruption of train services. Fallen trees have also forced the postponement of the reopening of the section on the Viskadalsbanan between Varberg and Borås.
The storm has also affected train company Vy, which operates Norrtåg to Åre and on the Mittbanan. Due to water flows and fallen trees, train services on several routes have been cancelled, and finding suitable replacement options has proven challenging.
Vy’s business manager, Petter Östberg, advised stranded travellers to explore alternative means of transportation, consider travelling on different days if possible, and monitor train and bus companies’ websites for updates.
The disruptions caused by storm Hans have also impacted train traffic in Norway, with trains between Arvika and Oslo S being replaced by buses due to high water levels. Moreover, catenary faults have been observed between Stöde and Nordansjö.
In summary, storm Hans has caused significant disruptions to train traffic throughout Sweden and parts of Norway, resulting in delays, cancellations, and the need for replacement buses. While efforts are underway to restore train services, travellers are advised to stay updated through the websites of train and bus operators.