The sun shines at night in Utsjoki, Finnish Lapland. Photo: Otto Ponto / Str / Lehtikuva
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Temperatures in Finnish Lapland have surged above 30 degrees Celsius this week, drawing international attention and triggering official heat warnings.
The Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) has issued a heat advisory covering the region through the weekend. Forecast models suggest that Lapland’s all-time high temperature may be exceeded by Friday.
Rovaniemi, the administrative centre of Lapland and home to the Santa Claus Holiday Village, recorded 31 degrees Celsius earlier this week. This level of heat is rare in the Arctic region, where summer highs usually stay closer to 20 degrees.
International media outlets have reported on the weather shift. US broadcaster CNN and news agency Reuters both published segments focused on the unusual conditions. A Reuters video showed residents and tourists adapting to the heat, with fans and cold drinks replacing jackets and gloves.
Toivo Koivu, a Rovaniemi resident, told Reuters that he expected cooler weather after travelling through southern Europe.
“It was very hot there, and we thought that when we would come back to Finland it would be cooler, like normally, but no, it was the same weather as down south,” Koivu said.
FMI climatologist Jari Tuovinen confirmed that the region is experiencing a prolonged period of elevated temperatures. He noted that conditions are consistent with patterns of increasing heat events in northern Europe.
The heat has affected local infrastructure and services. In Rovaniemi, schools and daycares have adjusted outdoor activities, and authorities have reminded residents to check on elderly neighbours. Public health officials have issued guidance on hydration and exposure limits.
Tourism operators in Santa Claus Village reported more demand for shaded spaces and indoor attractions. Staff at the popular destination have adapted by opening earlier in the day and providing water stations throughout the premises.
The ongoing heat has also prompted concerns among environmental scientists. Researchers at the University of Lapland are monitoring lake temperatures and soil moisture levels. Data collection efforts have increased due to potential impacts on permafrost and native species.
Lapland’s previous temperature record was 33.6 degrees Celsius, measured in Utsjoki in July 1914. According to the FMI, current trends indicate that this figure may be approached or exceeded by Friday afternoon.
Meteorologists expect the heat to persist across the weekend, with cooler air returning next week. For now, local emergency services remain on alert for heat-related incidents.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
