According to Norwegian authorities, a tour bus with 58 people on board swerved off the highway and plunged into Åsvatnet lake in northern Norway, killing three and seriously injuring four passengers.
The disaster happened in the famous tourist area in northern Norway, near Raftsundet, while bus had been traveling from the town of Narvik to the Lofoten archipelago.
“The bus is partially submerged. Currently, three fatalities have been confirmed, and four survivors are in serious condition,” stated chief of staff at the Nordland Police District.
Emergency responders encountered difficult conditions at the scene, including inclement weather that hindered helicopter operations, but “have successfully evacuated all passengers from the bus,” the police official added.
Crash victims with serious injuries were airlifted to Stokmarknes Hospital, while others were transported to nearby shelters, including a school facility.
According to the local official, there were numerous foreign nationals aboard, and the situation remains complicated as authorities investigate the cause of the accident.
The Chinese Embassy in Norway confirmed that 15 Chinese tourists were on the bus, with five sustaining minor injuries. The embassy stated it is in contact with the affected tourists and will provide necessary assistance to ensure their safe return.
An investigation into the causes of the crash is currently ongoing.
