Severe storm warning: authorities urge travellers to avoid Sunday return trips

Road traffic centres across southern Norway are advising against travel on Easter Sunday as storm Dave approaches, with emergency meetings scheduled in multiple counties for Saturday, reports Dagbladet.

The Norwegian Meteorological Institute issued a red alert—its highest warning level—on Friday for extreme wind gusts along the southwest coast, particularly affecting Agder and Rogaland. Authorities warn of closed roads, fallen trees, and significantly extended travel times, urging those with flexible plans to reschedule.

“Travel on Saturday instead”, said Anniken Ysland of the Southern Norway Traffic Control Centre. “Sunday will be the worst day, with high risks of road closures—especially on exposed routes like Haukelifjell and Hardangervidda.” The E134 mountain pass, a key east-west connection, may shut with little notice, forcing detours of hundreds of kilometres.

Agder and Rogaland counties have called emergency preparedness meetings for Saturday, with local officials stressing the severity of the red alert. “This is not issued lightly—people must take it seriously and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak storm period,” said Knut Berg, deputy county governor of Agder. Flekkefjord and Kristiansand are among the most vulnerable areas.

In Rogaland, authorities echoed the warning. “With extreme winds, roads and ferries may close abruptly. Plan carefully—if possible, don’t drive during the worst of it,” said Gry Evensen, deputy emergency director.

Traffic operators in western and eastern Norway also advised against Sunday travel. “Check forecasts and adjust plans—Haukelifjell and Hardangervidda could close suddenly,” said Tom Erik Englaugstad of the Western Traffic Control Centre. His eastern counterpart, Tomas Eriksen, recommended travelling on Saturday or Monday to avoid the storm’s peak.

The storm coincides with Easter Sunday, traditionally the busiest return-travel day of the holiday. Authorities emphasised that while some routes may remain open, delays and hazards are likely—and safety risks could force last-minute closures.