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The fire brigade fears the combination of slippery roads and a strong flow of water. In Mathallen, the basement is flooded.
Strong water flow in Akerselva on the second day of Christmas. Here from the Mølla waterfall. Photo: Olav Olsen
The mild weather has resulted in significantly more water flow in Akerselva than usual in December. And on Saturday night, the ground was covered in ice and snow. That combination prompts the Oslo Fire and Rescue Service to warn everyone in the city:
– The risk is significantly higher now than usual, says Brigade Commander Knut Halvorsen.
Aftenposten met him for an inspection on Christmas Day. Many families with children walked along the river during the winter. At the same time, it was partially slippery and the ground was covered in snow and ice.
– My ER manager now sees dangers. If people fall into the river now, it will be an enormously challenging job for us to return to collect them, says Halvorsen.
There is a large flow of water in the Akerselva at the moment, up to 35 cubic meters of water per second. Photo: Olav Olsen
The ground along the river was covered in snow on the second day of Christmas and it can be slippery. Photo: Olav Olsen
Increased forward water flow
Halvorsen has the following advice if he sees that someone has fallen into the river:
- Observe the emergency number 110.
- Try to help without putting yourself in danger.
- Follow the person downstream and update the fire department on the position.
The fire and rescue service has first responders and rescue divers on standby 24 hours a day.
Flood in Mathallen
The large flow of water has also caused flooding. On Christmas Eve, the water entered Mathallen’s cellar.
– We pump and work too much, says CEO Frode Rønne Malmo.
He says they currently have some control over the situation. The water rises 10 centimeters along the basement wall, but it is pumped out all the time.
– There is a great danger that Mathallen will have to be closed on Sunday, says Malmo.
Rains have been reported in the coming days, and in the coming days the flow of water will likely increase even more. Espen Scavenius, chief of service personnel at plant 110, says there is a risk of flooding and property damage elsewhere as well.
– All companies must follow, he says.
People are skiing on the second day of Christmas on the slopes of Akerselva. Photo: Olav Olsen
While others take a Christmas walk in the winter weather. Photo: Olav Olsen
