January 19, 2000
Web posted at: 2:17 p.m. EST (1917 GMT)

KJOSEN, Norway (CNN) -- At least five people were killed Wednesday near Kjosen in northern Norway when an avalanche swept a bus and a truck into the sea, police say.

Two people have been rescued, say police, who fear the death toll may rise. One of the survivors was reported to be in critical condition in a hospital in nearby Tromso.

The number of people aboard the bus was initially believed to be at least eight, but the exact number remains unclear.

The bus was located about 19 meters (63 feet) under the surface of the sea, said police inspector Arvid Isaksen, but he could not confirm if divers had reached the underwater site.

Police Lt. Aage Kvilstad at the Tromso station told CNN Norge that the sound of screams had been heard from the sea, and that the search area includes coastal waters as well as the avalanche area.

Helicopters, boats and rescue divers have been pressed into service to search for victims.

Heavy snow was reported in the region at the time of the avalanche.

Correspondent Morten Øverbye of CNN Norge contributed to this report.