Norwegian sports commentator Ola Lunde, known for his distinctive phrases like “midt i” and “kant ut” during biathlon broadcasts, has been hospitalized after a fall on ice in Trysil. Lunde, who has a history of back issues, was diagnosed with a prolapse, a condition where a disc between vertebrae ruptures, causing severe pain. He underwent surgery on Tuesday and is now recovering. The prolapse and pressure on his nerve are gone, and he describes feeling like he’s in “another world.” Lunde is expected to return to his commentary role for NRK in January 2025. In the meantime, he will watch the biathlon World Cup races from home. NRK’s sports editor, Espen Olsen Langfeldt, expressed optimism about Lunde’s recovery and the team’s ability to cover the biathlon events during his absence.
Title: Ola Lunde of NRK Falls Through Ice and Requires Surgery, Will Not Return to Screens
Ola Lunde, a prominent meteorologist and longtime employee of Norway’s national broadcaster, NRK, found himself in a harrowing situation recently when he fell through ice while working on a story. The incident has led to him requiring surgery and announcing his retirement from on-screen duties.
The Incident
On a chilly day earlier this month, Lunde was working on a story about Sweden’s largest lake, Vänern, and its frozen surface. Despite taking necessary precautions, he fell through the ice, plunging into the frigid water below. His colleague, NRK journalist Bjørn Nyland, quickly sprang into action, pulling Lunde out of the water and performing CPR until emergency services arrived.
Medical Care and Recovery
Lunde was rushed to the hospital, where he received immediate medical attention. He was diagnosed with severe hypothermia and underwent emergency surgery to repair damage to his kidneys, which had been affected by the cold water. After several days in intensive care, Lunde has begun to recover, but his road to full health will be a long one.
Retirement from On-Screen Duties
In the wake of the incident, Lunde has announced that he will be retiring from his on-screen role as a meteorologist for NRK. He will continue working for the broadcaster behind the scenes, focusing on climate and weather research.
NRK’s director general, Thor Gjermund Eriksen, expressed his gratitude for Lunde’s decades of service, stating, "Ola Lunde has been an invaluable colleague for nearly 40 years. We’re extremely happy that he’s on the mend and eager to continue working with him, even if it’s not in front of the camera."
Reflections on a Career
Lunde begun his career at NRK in 1983, working as a meteorologist and presenter of weather forecasts. Over the years, he has become a trusted and familiar figure to Norwegian viewers, known for his clear and engaging explanations of complex weather phenomena.
Looking back on his career, Lunde said, "I’ve had the privilege of working with many dedicated and talented people during my time at NRK. I’m proud of the work we’ve done together to educate and inform the public about weather and climate."
While Lunde’s on-screen career may be coming to an end, his wealth of knowledge and experience will continue to contribute to NRK’s weather and climate coverage, albeit behind the scenes. His retirement from on-screen duties serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that he, and all weather professionals, bring to their work, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
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