Trafikverket Closes Train Lines Amid Heatwave
Translated from Swedish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Trafikverket is closing several train lines in Småland and Värmland due to a heatwave, increasing the risk of "sun curves" and fires.
- The heat also affects road traffic, raising the risk of "bleeding asphalt" which can cause slipperiness.
- Trafikverket has entered an enhanced preparedness level to manage the impacts of the extreme heat on transportation infrastructure.
Sweden's national transport administration, Trafikverket, is implementing closures on several local train lines in Småland and Värmland as a heatwave grips the country. The extreme temperatures raise the risk of "sun curves," where tracks can buckle, and also increase the potential for fires caused by sparks from trains igniting dry vegetation.
To manage these risks, Trafikverket has moved to an enhanced state of preparedness. In Värmland, the line between Sunne and Torsby will be closed. In Småland, approximately 15 routes will either be shut down or have speed restrictions imposed due to the heat.
The heatwave is also impacting road traffic. The elevated temperatures can cause "bleeding asphalt," a phenomenon where the road surface softens, expands, and develops shiny black patches. This can lead to hazardous slippery conditions for drivers.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Dagens Nyheter in Swedish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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