Landslide Closes Key Road in Norway, Disrupting Travel and Raising Safety Concerns

Etne, Norway – The E134 Haukelivegen, a vital transportation artery in southern Norway, is closed indefinitely near Fjæra in Etne municipality following a significant landslide on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The incident prompted residents to seek shelter and has raised concerns about the area’s susceptibility to such events, despite ongoing preventative measures.

Landslide Details and Immediate Impact

The landslide, reported to police at 10:44 AM local time, deposited large boulders across both lanes of the E134. Several individuals sought refuge in a nearby tunnel during the event, but authorities have reported no missing persons or injuries as of this time. Emergency services are currently assessing the full extent of the damage, which includes damage to nearby buildings.

Monica Fjæra, a local resident, described the event as intense, recounting a “huge crash and rumble” that shook her home. She observed “huge stones coming like balls” towards her property, but fortunately, her cabin was spared.

Detours and Traffic Disruptions

The closure of the E134 is causing major disruptions for both commercial and passenger traffic. Motorists are advised to utilize alternative routes, including Rv7 over Hardangervidda, E16 over Filefjell, or Rv52 over Hemsedal. The Vegtrafikksentralen (Road Traffic Centre) has warned that clearing the debris and securing the mountainside will be a lengthy process.

History of Landslides in the Area

The region surrounding Fjæra and Åkrafjorden is historically prone to landslides and rockfalls, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or fluctuating temperatures that cause frost heave. While the Norwegian Public Roads Administration has implemented road safety measures in recent years, this incident underscores the ongoing risks posed by natural forces along this critical European road.

Ongoing Response and Future Outlook

Authorities are prioritizing the stabilization of the mountainside before commencing debris removal. The duration of the road closure remains uncertain and travelers are urged to stay informed about the latest updates from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration. Further assessments will be conducted to evaluate the long-term stability of the area and to determine if additional preventative measures are necessary.