As the new year begins, many parts of the country are celebrating with above-freezing temperatures and sleet. But as the festivities come to an end and December turns into January, the slush left behind will freeze to ice as a chilly high-pressure system moves in from Siberia.
According to meteorologist Pall Agust Thorarinsson at Stormgeo, the Siberian cold will bring with it cold air masses and a significant drop in temperatures. The cold front is expected to hit during the first week of January, causing temperatures to plummet from north to south. In northern Norrland, temperatures are forecasted to drop to -30 degrees, while central and southern Norrland can expect temperatures of -20 and -15 degrees respectively. In Svealand, temperatures are expected to hover around -10 degrees, with Stockholm seeing a low of -12 degrees and southern Götaland experiencing occasional subzero temperatures.
In addition to the cold, precipitation is also expected. According to Thorarinsson, rain and sleet are likely in southern Götaland, while snowfall is forecasted for northern Götaland, Svealand, and southern Norrland.
The drop in temperatures and precipitation will lead to an unsafe traffic situation, particularly in southern Sweden where the previously above-freezing temperatures have left behind slush on the roads which will now freeze into ice. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and check road conditions before traveling.
The neighboring country of Norway is also experiencing unusually low temperatures, with Oslo expected to dip to -24 degrees. While the change in weather is not considered unusual for this time of year in Sweden, the cold is expected to be felt significantly.
“It will be a lot colder than it is now,” said Thorarinsson.
With the impending drop in temperatures, both motorists and residents are urged to take precautions and prepare for the wintry weather ahead.