Headline:
Snowstorm Batters Bergen: Heimetenesta Struggles with Increased Response Times
Article:
A snowstorm has hit Bergen, causing significant disruptions to emergency services and transportation. Heimetenesta, the home care service, is facing increased response times due to the challenging weather conditions.
Sharon Saldivar, a Heimetenesta employee, reported that it took 30 minutes to reach a patient on Friday, compared to the usual 10 minutes. She attributed this delay to the double workload they are currently facing, as many worried individuals are calling in for updates.
The snowstorm, which started on Friday night, has continued into Saturday, causing yellow weather alerts for snow along the entire west coast. The Norwegian Meteorological Institute’s radar map shows heavy snowfall across the region.
Kollega Solveig Hodneland advised residents to check on their neighbors to ensure they are okay. She also suggested calling the Heimetenesta to inquire about their response times, as there have been many delays recently.
The city’s light rail system, Bybanen, is at a standstill due to the snow, with buses being deployed as replacements. However, the buses are also experiencing difficulties due to the adverse weather conditions. The airport at Flesland has temporarily closed its runway twice due to snow drifts.
All helicopter departures to Equinor’s platforms have been suspended until further notice. The police and road authorities have reported several minor accidents, but no serious injuries have been reported.
Meanwhile, heavy snowfall is expected in eastern and southern Norway. Oslo could receive up to 30 centimeters of snow by Monday, while Telemark might see up to 50 centimeters.
Image Captions:
- Heavy snow creates traffic problems in Bergen. Photo: Paul S. Amundsen / NTB
- Snow causes major issues in Bergen. Photo: NTB
- Snow-covered cars in the center of Ålesund. Photo: Silje Steinnes Bjerknes / NRK
Sources:
- NRK Bergen
- The Norwegian Meteorological Institute
- The Norwegian Police Service
- Equinor
