Jari storm disrupts mobile networks and causes power outages across Finland

The Jari storm has disrupted mobile network operations across Finland, leading to significant power outages. Morning reports indicated connectivity issues for all major telecom operators. For instance, the operator DNA announced early in the morning that disruptions in mobile network service were being experienced in areas including Uusimaa, Kymenlaakso, Päijät-Häme, Pirkanmaa, and Central Finland. Technicians are currently working on resolving the issues, with services expected to resume by the afternoon.

Jarkko Laari, responsible for DNA’s radio networks, described the Jari storm as one of the worst in years. Many operators share infrastructure; thus, when power goes out, it affects all services linked to that site within a few hours. Telia and Elisa have reported most of their issues in Central Finland. Specifically, Telia’s phone services have faced complete outages in Lapland, impacting areas around Urho Kekkonen National Park and Korvatunturi.

Karri Jäkkö, head of service management at Elisa, remarked that the storm’s impact was more severe than usual, noting widespread network failures in Central Finland. He anticipates that service should be restored by midday on Friday, pending the restoration of electrical supply.

Backup batteries at the base stations typically provide power for around four hours during outages, and operators have dispatched generators to the most critical locations. However, Jäkkö acknowledged that not every powerless site can be equipped with backup power. According to the energy industry’s outage map, the number of power outages has fluctuated in line with the storm’s progression, with around 50,000 customers reported to be without electricity by 10 a.m.