The recent storm Hannes, which struck Finland between Christmas and the New Year, has resulted in substantial damage across the western parts of the country. The insurance company Lähitapiola reports that their compensation estimates have reached 25 million euros, placing them third in terms of total compensation for storm damage. Kirsi Harri, the compensation director for Lähitapiola Pohjoinen, confirmed that the damage assessment process is still ongoing, with a high volume of claims expected throughout the region.

The northern region, which encompasses North and Central Ostrobothnia, has recorded 789 reported claims, most of which are eligible for compensation. Harri mentions that with many residents returning to summer cottages in the spring, further damages will likely be discovered, particularly in isolated areas where people haven't checked their properties during the winter months. Cities most affected by the storm include Raahe, Kalajoki, Kaustinen, and Ylivieska, where the destruction of buildings and forestry has been particularly significant.

As recovery efforts continue, the economic impact on local communities is still being evaluated, with many waiting for insurance assessments to begin repairs and renovations. The situation underlines the vulnerability of the Finnish landscape to severe weather events, and the ongoing risks posed by climate change are likely to prompt discussions about improving infrastructure resilience and preparedness for future storms.