Kiruna

Rescue services in Kiruna issued an official warning due to strong winds after two roofs were damaged/blown off during Monday morning. Wind gusts of up to about 20 m/s were reported and train traffic through Kiruna stopped due to a wind-related electrical fault.

A minor earthquake occurred roughly 20 km north of Kiruna, Sweden, on Monday night, according to the Swedish National Seismic Network (SNSN). Residents in places including Kurravaara and Käyrävuopio reported strong shaking lasting about 15 seconds; authorities say it was not related to the mine.

LKAB says ground deformation from the Kiruna iron ore mine will extend farther than previously forecast, forcing relocation of about 2,700 homes and 6,000 residents. The expanded impact zone must be replaced within 10 years at an estimated cost of SEK 22.5 billion.

The state-owned Swedish mining company LKAB says it has found a deposits containing more than one million tons of rare earth oxides near Kiruna in Northern Sweden.

Hiila Inga is concerned about the health of his reindeer. His community herds 8000 head each year, between traditional grazing lands in the mountain and the forests further east.

Unusual weather patterns in Sweden’s arctic region seem to be jeopardising the migrating animals’ traditional grazing grounds, as rainfall during the winter has led to thick layers of snowy ice that block access to food.

Sweden’s mountain areas are experiencing a record number of avalanches—the highest since measurements began ten years ago. Experts say a persistent weak snow layer topped by new snow has made the snowpack unusually sensitive, with many avalanches triggered by people.