Weather and precautionary warnings
How to use weather and road condition information from yr.no, vegvesen.no and variable signs for safer driving.
Good driving starts with good preparation. Checking weather and road conditions before you set out can prevent accidents and save lives.
Important information sources
| Source | What you find |
|---|---|
| yr.no | Weather forecast with precipitation, wind, and temperature |
| vegvesen.no / 175.no | Road conditions, road closures, escorted convoys |
| Norwegian Public Roads Administration app | Real-time information about road conditions |
| Variable signs | Current information along the road |
| Traffic radio (NRK P1) | Updates on traffic and road conditions |
| Webcams (vegvesen.no) | See actual conditions on mountain passes |
Variable signs along the road
Variable signs are electronic boards that display updated information about:
- Reduced speed limits due to weather or road conditions
- Warning of queues or accident further ahead
- Road closure or escorted convoys
- Wind warning on exposed stretches
These signs have the same validity as regular traffic signs and are mandatory to follow.
What should you check before driving?
- Temperature: around zero degrees means changing road conditions and risk of ice.
- Precipitation: rain, snow, or sleet affects both visibility and road grip.
- Wind: strong wind is especially dangerous on open stretches and in the mountains.
- Visibility: fog, snow showers, and heavy rain greatly reduce visibility. See fog driving and reduced visibility .
Special warnings
- Hazard warning (yellow, orange, red) from the Meteorological Institute means the weather can become extreme.
- With a red warning, you should consider postponing your trip.
- Escorted convoy driving on mountain passes means you follow a snowplow in a convoy and cannot overtake.
- Road closed means the road is impassable. Check for alternative routes.
Adaptation on the way
Even if the weather forecast promised good weather, conditions can change quickly, especially in mountain terrain .
- Keep an eye on variable signs and traffic reports.
- Be ready to reduce speed if conditions worsen.
- Always have equipment for various road conditions, especially in winter. See tire types and tire requirements .
Further reading
Read next
More in Class B course
Accidents involving vulnerable road users
Special procedures and considerations for accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Accidents, reporting and first aid
Checklist for safe handling of accidents and proper notification.
Adapted speed and hidden danger
What adjusted speed means in practice, and how you anticipate hazards you cannot see.
Age limits and practice driving
Everything about age limits for class B and what is required for private practice driving with a companion.