Snow and milder air are set to sweep across Finland starting Friday, ending a period of dry and stable weather. A broad low pressure system moving in from the west will bring significant changes to temperatures, wind patterns, and snowfall distribution.
The first impacts will be felt in Lapland, where light snowfall is expected. According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute, snow amounts in the north will be modest, but powdery snow may reduce visibility on roads late Saturday night and early Sunday morning. Drivers in Lapland should prepare for slippery surfaces during these periods.
Temperatures this weekend will vary across the country. Central Finland will see readings between minus 5 and minus 15 degrees Celsius. In the north, conditions will remain colder, with temperatures generally ranging from minus 10 to minus 20 degrees. Clear night skies could allow temperatures to dip further in exposed areas.
Saturday will bring milder air southward, allowing snow to spread more widely. Southern regions are expected to receive the heaviest snowfall, beginning as light flurries before intensifying in the evening. The shift in air mass will push temperatures near zero along the southern coast.
Forecasters caution that the arrival of milder conditions may create icy surfaces before the main snowfall begins. Freezing drizzle is also likely in some areas ahead of heavier snow. By evening, snow will extend into eastern Finland, affecting both roads and pedestrian areas.
Vendi Pelkonen, duty meteorologist at the Finnish Meteorological Institute, explained that by Sunday, southern regions are likely to see snow accumulations between five and ten centimetres. In Lapland, light powder snow may reach just over five centimetres during Saturday.
The low pressure system will also increase winds across southern and central Finland. When combined with falling snow, driving conditions could become hazardous. The timing coincides with winter holiday travel, which may affect outbound and return traffic. Pedestrians should exercise caution on potentially slippery pavements.
By Sunday morning, snowfall will retreat to eastern Finland and move out of the country by the afternoon. Northern Lapland may receive additional light snow as a new low pressure system approaches. Southern Finland is also expected to see further snow by Sunday evening as the next system arrives.
Early next week, colder air will return to southern regions. Forecasters anticipate unsettled conditions, with alternating snowfall and clearer intervals. Travelers and residents should monitor updates and prepare for changing road and weather conditions.
