Record-breaking cold temperatures have swept across northern Sweden, causing significant disruptions in public services and putting a halt to many planned activities.

The mercury has dropped to as low as -40 degrees Celsius, leading to a complete halt in train traffic north of Boden.

This severe weather has left a group of German tourists stranded, who were hoping to see the Northern Lights.

Meanwhile, meteorologists are forecasting a drastic shift in weather with temperatures expected to rise by 40 degrees.

However, the relief is short-lived as the cold is expected to return later in the week.