In a peculiar incident recently, the Merikoski power plant in Oulu was forced to release approximately six million cubic meters of water in a single day. This decision was a direct response to the heavy accumulation of snow, which had created hazards for the power lines. The large volume of displaced water caused significant ice masses to flow down the Oulu River, which posed a risk to public safety in Ainolanpuisto, a park located in the city center. Consequently, authorities are assessing potential damage in the park area as a result of this event.

The sudden release of water and the resulting ice movement also damaged winter swimming facilities, specifically the thermal stairs at Tuiran winter swimming site, leading to its closure for the remainder of the season. The local government of Oulu has expressed concern that these facilities may not reopen before the end of the winter swimming season. The situation underscores the importance of effective management and oversight in such unusual climatic conditions, and it has drawn the attention of local authorities and environmental regulators.

The supervision of the Merikoski power plant's operations falls under the jurisdiction of the Lupa- ja valvontavirasto (LVV), which is responsible for ensuring compliance with environmental laws. Anne Polso, the group leader of the water law monitoring team, has been approached for insights into whether the six million cubic meter water release posed any risks to the public or the environment, indicating that the situation is being taken very seriously by the regulators.