Storm Sif, expected to impact Denmark this weekend, has been designated by the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) due to its anticipated high winds and flooding risks. The storm brings the potential for hurricane-force wind gusts particularly affecting Northern Jutland and Bornholm, and weather alerts have been issued across the region.
Starting Sunday evening, Sif is predicted to generate severe weather conditions throughout Denmark, with wind gusts reaching up to 24.5 meters per second, heightening precautions across the nation. The DMI has extended warnings of storm force winds, significantly affecting transport services and local environments, with expectation of heightened water levels as well.
Erik Hansen, the duty officer at DMI, explained, "Det kan godt give nogle problemer lokalt. Om der bliver varslet på det eller ikke bliver varslet på det, følger vi op på." This quote underlines the serious local impacts anticipated due to high water levels—estimated to rise by about one meter—particularly affecting the eastern parts of the Limfjord, north of Kronprins Frederiks Bro.
The storm is expected to generate significant wave heights, especially affecting ferry services and rail transport. High surf has already led to numerous ferry cancellations and more cautious train schedules. Beredskabsstyrelsen has urged the public to follow local advisories, stating, "Varslet gælder Nordjylland og Bornholm. Følg med hos DMI, følg politiets anvisninger og træf dine forholdsregler," indicating the gravity of the situation.
Areas at risk of flooding include Roskilde Fjord, where water levels may peak up to 115 centimeters above daily tide levels on Monday morning. These conditions have prompted local municipalities to conduct monitoring operations, though officials have initially concluded there’s no need for alert measures with the situation being observed closely.
Finally, as storm Sif approaches, forecasts indicate the potential for increased wind activity across other regions including Skagerrak, where the most severe wind gusts are expected overnight. The storm's impacts were described by TV 2 Vejret as likely reclassifying Sif as 'Kulingen Sif' due to insufficient average wind velocity to warrant the storm classification officially.
Authorities stress the importance of safety and preparedness as the storm is anticipated to peak, particularly on Sunday night through early Monday morning. With travel disruptions becoming evident across the country, citizens are encouraged to stay informed and minimize any unnecessary travel.
