In early January, several hikers in the Urho Kekkonen National Park faced unforeseen extreme cold, forcing rescue operations as they were unable to return due to frostbite and exhaustion. The local authorities, specifically the Lapland Border Guard, conducted evacuations using snowmobiles, transporting the affected individuals to hospitals for medical treatment. Emergency services responded promptly to the situation, highlighting the severity of the conditions in the area during that time.

Lieutenant Colonel Mikko Kauppila, the deputy commander of the Lapland Border Guard, remarked on the rarity of such incidents but emphasized that they are not entirely unprecedented. He warned about the critical importance of being well-equipped for winter hiking expeditions, particularly in harsh conditions where temperatures can drop unexpectedly. This incident serves as a reminder for outdoor enthusiasts about the necessary precautions to take in wilderness areas during winter.

The first evacuation occurred on Sunday, January 4th, when a solo skier on the Korvatunturi hiking trail called emergency services after severely frostbiting his fingers. This case not only emphasizes the risks associated with winter outdoor activities but also the need for vigilance and preparedness among hikers to prevent similar emergencies in the future.