Dangerous snow conditions in the mountains

The Kiruna Mountain Safety Committee warns of dangerous and unusual snow and ice conditions in the mountains. The weather has fluctuated significantly, with periods of cold, locally large amounts of snow, but also high temperatures combined with strong winds, all occurring within relatively short timeframes (days). It resembles the typical weather of April-May in the mountains, but is now happening during what is normally the coldest period. As a result, some slopes may appear safe from a distance but can be as hard as concrete and dangerous, as traction under a snowmobile or skis can be lost suddenly.

Mattias Nilsson from the Mountain Safety Committee in Kiruna urges people heading into the mountains to stay alert, avoid going out alone, and make a travel plan to share with someone.

The Mountain Safety Committee warns against:

• Hitting rocks while riding a snowmobile or skiing in steep terrain
• Traveling over ice patches with a snowmobile or skis, especially in steep terrain, to avoid falls or other accidents
• Crossing or traveling along running water where the ice is unusually weak, to prevent injuries and drowning
• Riding or skiing on large lakes where the ice is smooth and slippery
  

Stay vigilant in the areas you visit and keep yourself updated on mountain safety. Check out fjallsakerhetsradet.se and lavinprognoser.se for more information.