Sweden braces for heat wave with temperatures exceeding 30°C across southern regions

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.