Norway may hit new heat record but lack of official station could invalidate it

The Norwegian Meteorological Institute forecasts 36°C in Dalen, Telemark on Wednesday, which would exceed the national heat record of 35.6°C set in Nesbyen in 1970, Dagbladet reports.

Julie Solsvik Vågane, duty meteorologist at the institute, confirmed the potential for a new record but noted strict requirements for official recognition. “The measuring station must be inspected, and everything must be correct. It must also be an approved station,” she said.

Dalen has no official Meteorological Institute station. Tokke mayor Jarand Felland said the municipality had previously hosted one for 70 years until its closure 15 years ago. “We’ve raised this with the institute several times. We’d be happy to facilitate a new station,” he said.

Nesbyen mayor Anne Kari Eriksen said the town is prepared for extreme heat, with shops stocked with ice. “We’re proud of our 56-year record. If it’s broken, the measurements must still be officially approved,” she said.