Finland to face heavy snow and gusty winds as meteorologists warn of hazardous driving conditions

A low-pressure system will bring snowfall and strong winds to Finland this weekend, with forecasters warning of poor and potentially dangerous driving conditions, reports Yle.

The Finnish Meteorological Institute predicts snow will fall across central regions—including Ostrobothnia, North Savo, and North Karelia—beginning late Saturday night. Southern Finland will initially see rain before transitioning to sleet and snow by evening, with heavy snow squalls possible along the western coast.

Temperatures will hover between 0°C and 8°C nationwide, but gusts of 15–20 m/s are expected, particularly in southern and central areas, peaking around midday Sunday. The winds may topple trees and cause power outages before easing by Sunday evening.

Meteorologist Eetu Rimo cautioned that snowfall could be heavy at times, leading to “very poor” road conditions, especially in the east and parts of the south through Sunday morning. While snow will melt quickly in southern regions, icy or slush-covered roads may persist.

The Meteorological Institute also maintains warnings for elevated wildfire risk across southern Finland, extending as far north as Rovaniemi and Kemijärvi.