Geo
Jun 22, 2026 Major2
81%
Sweden braces for heat wave with temperatures exceeding 30°C across southern regions
SMHI has warned of a heat wave affecting southern Sweden from Thursday to Sunday, with temperatures exceeding 30°C and potentially reaching 38°C in Kalmar and Blekinge. The heat wave, moving northward from southern Europe, poses risks to vulnerable populations, and municipalities are activating preparedness protocols.
Quick Facts
Who
SMHI (Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute)
What
SMHI issues heat wave warnings
When
Thursday afternoon to Sunday evening
Where
Götaland
- SMHI issues heat wave warnings
- Orange weather warning issued for Götaland and Värmland
- Yellow weather warning issued for Kalmar and Blekinge
- Municipalities implement heat-wave preparedness protocols
- Distribution of information materials and preventive supplies to vulnerable populations
Sweden's meteorological institute SMHI has issued warnings for exceptionally high temperatures across much of Götaland and Värmland from Thursday afternoon through Sunday evening. Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 30°C, with localized areas reaching up to 33°C. The heat wave, driven by warm air moving northward from southern Europe, poses particular risks to vulnerable populations including the elderly, small children, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions. SMHI meteorologist Catarina Wahlström advised the public to monitor physical warning signs, stay in shade or indoors, and drink plenty of water. A yellow weather warning has been issued for parts of Kalmar and Blekinge counties, where temperatures could reach 35°C, with meteorologist Johan Wiksten noting that Saturday could see temperatures approach the Swedish record of 38°C. Overnight temperatures are forecast to remain around 25°C through Sunday night, preventing adequate cooling. Municipal authorities are taking preventive measures; Skövde municipality's elderly care services are activating established heat-wave protocols, including distributing information sheets to staff, providing residents with extra fluids, and setting up air coolers. The rest of Sweden is expected to experience typical summer temperatures, with northern regions forecasted around 15-20°C and no additional heat warnings issued elsewhere.
Why This Matters
This heat wave represents a significant public health emergency affecting vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those with health conditions. Temperatures approaching Sweden's record highs combined with insufficient overnight cooling create dangerous conditions that require immediate preventive action. Understanding municipal response protocols and individual protective measures is critical for reducing heat-related mortality and complications during this extreme weather event.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 22, 2026
WireSMHI issues heat wave warnings
Jun 26, 2026
WireHeat wave begins (Thursday afternoon)
Jun 27, 2026
WireTemperatures peak Saturday, potentially approaching 38°C record
Jun 29, 2026
WireHeat wave ends (Sunday evening)