In a rare occurrence, Finland's maritime areas are experiencing significant ice coverage, prompting all icebreakers, including the Sisu, to be fully operational. The icebreaker Sisu recently docked at the Port of Kotka for maintenance after ten days at sea, where the crew will restock supplies and clear waste. According to the captain of the Sisu, Roy Eriksson, the Finns have not seen such a winter in a long time.

The extent of ice coverage in Finnish waters has reached levels not seen in over 30 years, with the ice area peaking at 181,000 square kilometers last weekend, marking the highest figure in 15 years. In contrast to the average winter extent of approximately 141,000 square kilometers, this winter's ice conditions are exceptionally notable, which may not be repeated for a decade or two, as mentioned by Ice Expert Aleksi Arola from the Finnish Meteorological Institute.

The significant ice presence in the Gulf of Finland is a reminder of climate variability in the region and raises concerns about future ice conditions and maritime operations. While we may not see winters like this frequently, the residents and authorities must be prepared for potential changes in ice patterns and their implications for shipping and navigation in the future.