Oscarsborg fortress has been evacuated as thick ice has formed in the fjord, hindering transportation and activities scheduled for the upcoming birthday salute for King Harald. The ferry service has been canceled, creating concerns about accessibility to the historic site. Per Egil Grimstad, the fortress commander, reported the situation, indicating that early evacuation was a precautionary measure to avoid being stranded due to worsening ice conditions.

Grimstad, who has held his position since 2016, remarked that he has not encountered such severe freezing as this in his tenure. He reassured that there is no drama surrounding the evacuation decision, emphasizing that the safety of visitors and staff was the priority. Plans for a salute to King Harald on Saturday remain contingent on any changes in the ice situation, which will be assessed closer to the time of the event.

The decision regarding the salute will be made the following day, depending on whether conditions allow for transport across the fjord. The potential cancellation of this event not only affects the fortress's schedule but also reflects on the unique weather challenges faced in the region during winter, raising questions about the safety and accessibility of historical sites in similar conditions.