Over 200 reports of hazardous icicles hanging from rooftops have come in to Stockholm's Istappstelefonen service amid the cold winter. The hotline, launched after a fatal 2003 accident, forwards alerts to property owners. Authorities urge pedestrians to stay alert.
Large icicles are dangling along the rooftops of numerous properties in Stockholm, posing risks to pedestrians on sidewalks. The recent cold weather has intensified the issue, with over 200 cases reported to the Istappstelefonen service in just a few days, operated by Fastighetskalendern.
The service began in 2004, following a 2003 tragedy where a 14-year-old boy was killed by a massive icicle falling on him on Drottninggatan. Fredrik Tamm, owner of Fastighetskalendern, notes: "Right now, it seems the roof clearers are a bit behind, as we haven't had this kind of market in years." The hotline holds contact details for property owners and prioritizes reports to protect the public. Over 11,000 properties are connected, including major players like Familjebostäder, HSB Stockholm, and Stockholmshem.
SMHI meteorologist Christopher Greenland attributes the surge to northern cold air: "It has to do with this colder air taking over." Even colder air is forecast for the weekend, with temperatures dropping to five degrees below zero in Stockholm.
Region Stockholm stresses caution. Chief physician Johan Bratt advises: "It's important to look up to keep an eye on overhanging ice and snow." Spiked shoe attachments are recommended to prevent slips. Reports can be submitted via phone at 020-478277 or istappstelefonen.se. Property owners are responsible for removing the icicles.