Sea waves surge at Eiranranta in Helsinki. Photo: Heikki Saukkomaa / Lehtikuva
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A strong low-pressure system will bring heavy rain, high winds and thunderstorms across Finland from early Thursday, disrupting summer conditions and prompting warnings from meteorologists.
The Finnish Meteorological Institute said the storm would enter the country through the west during the night between Wednesday and Thursday. Rainfall is expected to be most intense in central and western regions, with up to 30 millimetres possible.
Southern Finland, including the capital region, will see variable conditions. Laura Tuomola, a meteorologist on duty at the Finnish Meteorological Institute, said the Helsinki area may avoid the worst rain, though gusty winds will still be noticeable.
“The actual rain is likely to be minimal in Uusimaa, but the wind will make the storm felt even without significant precipitation,” she said.
Thursday’s afternoon could bring isolated showers and thunderstorms to eastern parts of Uusimaa, while the western parts may experience drier conditions.
In the west, thunderstorms are expected in the morning hours, followed by shifting rainfall towards central Finland by the afternoon. The heaviest rain is likely along a band stretching from southwestern regions through central areas into the evening.
Wind intensity will increase significantly from late Thursday night. On Friday morning, the strongest gusts are forecast in southern Finland, possibly exceeding 20 metres per second. Western coastal areas may also see winds over 15 metres per second.
By Friday afternoon, the storm system will move eastwards. Windy conditions will follow, particularly in eastern Finland. The Finnish Meteorological Institute has issued warnings for gale-force gusts.
Elias Paakkanen, a meteorologist at Yle, said Thursday’s impact will be widely felt. “A real thump is coming on Thursday,” he said.
He added that while sunshine might return to parts of the southwest by Friday, strong winds will persist. “I don’t know how much comfort it brings if the sun’s out but the wind is blowing at more than 15 metres per second.”
Residents in affected areas are advised to secure loose items outdoors and be cautious when travelling, especially if heavy rain coincides with peak commuting hours.
The weekend is expected to bring more stable weather, but conditions will remain cool with intermittent showers across the country. Temperatures are forecast to stay below summer norms, and no prolonged period of warm weather is predicted.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
