Three dead, four seriously injured in northern Norway bus accident

OSLO, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Three people died and four others sustained serious injuries after a bus veered off highway and plunged partially into a lake in northern Norway, local authorities said on Thursday.

"The bus is partially underwater. So far, three fatalities have been confirmed, and four people are seriously injured," said Bent Are Eilertsen, chief of staff at the Nordland Police District. "Emergency services have evacuated everyone from the bus."

The accident occurred near Raftsundet, in Lofoten archipelago, northern Norway's famous tourist destination. Emergency responders faced challenging conditions at the site, including adverse weather that hampered helicopter operations.

Seriously injured individuals were airlifted to a hospital, while others were taken to nearby shelters, including a school.

"There were many foreign nationals on board," Eilertsen added, noting that the situation remains complex as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash.

The Chinese Embassy in Norway confirmed that 15 Chinese tourists were on the bus, with five sustaining minor injuries. The embassy said it is maintaining contact with the Chinese tourists and will provide necessary support to ensure their safe departure.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is underway. ■