News · Transport · Published 17 July 2026
Heat slows Swedish trains and turns road asphalt slippery
DailySweden
Updated 07:05 · 1 min read
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High temperatures are forcing slower trains and fewer departures on several Swedish rail routes, while softened road surfaces may become slippery, Trafikverket has warned.
The agency said rails can expand and buckle in the heat, creating a derailment risk. Overhead wires can also sag far enough to be torn down. Trafikverket may reduce speeds or stop traffic where necessary, and says the affected stretches can change quickly. Passengers should check updates from their train operator before travelling.
On roads, heat can soften the binder in asphalt and draw it to the surface as black, shiny patches known as bleeding asphalt. Drivers should slow down, keep their distance and report defects or stranded vehicles to Trafikverket. The agency also advises travellers to carry drinking water and never leave children or animals in parked vehicles.
SMHI has issued high-temperature warnings across large parts of Götaland and Svealand and southernmost Norrland. Trafikverket published its warning at 15:50 CEST on 14 July.
Source: Trafikverket.
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