Örebro County Residents Complain About Strong Odor Resembling “Cat Piss”
Saturday morning brought about a series of peculiar phone calls to the SOS Alarm in Örebro County. Multiple individuals reported a foul smell resembling “cat piss,” ammonia, or sulphur permeating the air. Residents expressed their concerns about the strong and distinct scent, with some describing it as something chemical.
One local resident, Staffan Roslund from Hällabrottet, shared his experience with P4 Örebro, stating, “It smells something chemical.” He added that the odor was persistent and unmistakable, creating a discomforting atmosphere in the area.
According to meteorologist Linus Karlsson, the cause of this unpleasant smell is a weather phenomenon known as inversion. During an inversion, the air temperature increases with altitude, causing the normal vertical temperature gradient to reverse. This phenomenon traps odors, such as those emitted by smelly industries, closer to the ground. Instead of dispersing and dissipating with height, these odors remain concentrated at lower levels.
Karlsson further explained the effect, likening it to a lid over the affected area. He said, “It becomes like a lid, which means that the smell does not mix again but remains quite intense.” As a result, residents are forced to endure the unpleasant odor until the inversion dissipates.
Though the specific source of the smell was not identified in the report, it is likely tied to the industrial activities in the region. Inversions can exacerbate the impact of industrial odors by keeping them concentrated instead of dispersing them over a wider area.
Meanwhile, residents in Örebro County are advised to stay indoors where possible and ensure proper ventilation to minimize exposure to the strong odor. As for when the inversion will lift and the smell will dissipate, meteorologists have stated that it is challenging to predict the exact duration of such weather phenomena.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and working to address any potential health concerns related to the unpleasant odor. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to report any unusual symptoms or discomfort they may experience due to the smell.
As the inversion continues, the residents of Örebro County remain hopeful for a change in the weather that will bring relief from the pervasive scent.