Even though some weather forecasts were still showing sunny skies over much of southern Norway during the weekend, state meteorologists were warning that the first major autumn storm of the season was set to ram much of the country Friday night. Strong winds and rain, especially along the west coast, were already being felt in the areas around Ålesund and Molde.
Norwegians were being urged to take in any garden furniture still sitting outdoors after the record warm summer, along with plants, pots, trampolines and other “loose items.” They risked being turned into fatal flying objects otherwise, and boat owners were told to secure their craft as tightly as possible.
Many ‘will be surprised’
“Hang onto your hats,” trumpeted state broadcaster NRK, while state meteorologist Steinar Skare said that after a long period of good weather, “many will probably be surprised by the strength of the wind.”
The worst weather was due to bear down on central Norway and Nordland County to the north. Residents were advised to stay indoors.
In southern and eastern Norway, where the autumn school holiday week was getting underway, strong winds were also expected. Temperatures were to remain mild, but gusts are due to be just under hurricane force.
Already stormy in Romsdal
Stormy weather moved in over the counties of Møre og Romsdal and Trøndelag Friday morning. Winds were due to increase Friday night and into Saturday morning, and Nordland was warned to expect lots of rain.
Winds were due to subside on Saturday, but residents of central Norway were only due to get a slight break before another storm front moves in on Sunday.
“Luckily, this low pressure system will be weaker than the first one,” Skare said. “But it will be a weekend full of wind and rain for many.”
newsinenglish.no/Nina Berglund
