Feb 20 • 11:37 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Iltalehti

Something Happens at Night – Avalanche Risk Increases in Finnish Lapland

The avalanche risk in Finnish Lapland is expected to rise due to incoming precipitation over the weekend, according to meteorological reports.

Meteorologists from Finland's Ilmatieteenlaitos have warned that the avalanche risk will increase in Lapland, specifically in areas such as Pallas-Ounastunturi, Kilpisjärvi, and Ylläs-Levi, as a system of precipitation moves in overnight. This change in weather is likely to create conditions where snowfall accumulates quickly, with meteorologist Petri Hoppula noting the expected snow will arrive from Sweden and will increase in intensity into the night.

The accumulation of snow can lead to the formation of unstable snow packs, particularly on sheltered slopes where wind can drift fresh snow onto ridges. Hoppula further explained that while there may only be a few centimeters of new snowfall, the wind can compact this powder under certain conditions, causing hazard levels to rise significantly as the snow crust becomes increasingly unstable.

This increase in avalanche risk is a crucial warning for locals and visitors planning outdoor activities in these areas. The impending weather conditions underline the need for caution among winter sports enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of checking avalanche warnings and preparedness before venturing into the mountains during the snowy season.

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