Storm Sweeps Over Nordics, Major Traffic Havoc

Hurricane-strength winds have swept over large parts of the Nordics, causing major power outages and leaving many Christmas holidaymakers stranded as it ripped down trees that blocked both roads and railway lines.

No injuries were reported, but the winds measured more than 76 mph (122 kph) as the storm traveled over Norway most of Sunday and into Sweden early Monday.

Hundreds of thousands of households were left without power in both countries as the storm – dubbed “Dagmar” – continued in over Finland and the Baltic countries.

Out at sea, the high waves also caused ferry traffic disruptions.

Swedish national weather service spokeswoman Alexandra Ohlsson says the powerful gusts have been hurricane strength in many areas.