Massive Landslides Cause Destruction and Injuries in Various Swedish Locations
Several recent landslides in different regions of Sweden have resulted in significant damage, injuries, and even loss of life. These incidents highlight the devastating impact of natural disasters on communities and the need for proper risk assessment and preparedness measures.
In December 2006, a section of the E6 highway collapsed in Småröd, Munkedal Municipality, Västra Götaland. Approximately ten cars and two trucks were dragged along in the landslide, causing injuries to 28 individuals. The Bohusbanan railway line was also destroyed. The accident commission determined that the collapse was caused by excessive excavation materials placed during construction, combined with the presence of quick clay and the slope of the valley. Fortunately, the new road and embankment were opened for use just two months after the incident.
In May 1997, Vagnhärad, Trosa municipality, Södermanland, experienced a major landslide that dragged several villas towards Trosaån. Approximately 100 people had to be evacuated from 33 at-risk villas, while five individuals sustained injuries. The accident commission concluded that heavy rainfall and high groundwater pressure were the main factors behind the landslide. It also highlighted the municipality’s lack of awareness regarding the landslide risk in the area.
Another tragic landslide occurred in November 1977 in Tuve, Gothenburg Municipality, Västra Götaland. The disaster claimed the lives of nine people and injured around 40. Several houses collapsed, and a 600-meter wide section of a slope moved 800 meters towards Kvillebäcken. More than 400 people were left homeless, and 67 buildings were destroyed. Heavy rains were identified as the primary cause of this devastating event.
In June 1957, Lilla Edets municipality, Västra Götaland, witnessed one of the largest avalanches in modern Swedish history. A section of the Göta riverbank burst, carrying away significant portions of the Göta sulphite factory and causing the deaths of three factory employees.
Moreover, Surte, Ale municipality, Västra Götaland, was struck by a landslide in September 1950. One person lost their life, and 30 houses were destroyed. The houses were displaced up to 150 meters by the massive landslide, covering an area equivalent to 22 hectares.
The oldest recorded landslide incident on this list occurred in October 1918 in Norrköping municipality, Östergötland. A landslide caused the collapse of a railway embankment, leading to a tragic train accident near Bråviken. The train tumbled down the slope, resulting in the deaths of 41 people and numerous severe injuries. Heavy rainfall had weakened the embankment, making it susceptible to collapse.
These devastating landslides serve as a grim reminder of the importance of comprehensive risk assessment, infrastructure maintenance, and disaster preparedness. Efforts must be made to mitigate the risks associated with natural disasters to protect the lives and properties of communities across Sweden.