Kymijoki river at unusually low levels with no relief in sight

The Kymijoki river in southeastern Finland is experiencing exceptionally low water levels this spring, affecting recreational use and hydroelectric power production, public broadcaster Yle reports.

Water levels along the river have dropped so significantly that rocks and small sandy beaches have emerged along the banks. Heimo Einola, manager of the Keski-Kymi special fishing area, said he cannot recall the river being this low. “Many more rocks have become visible, and a small sandy beach has appeared. You can even swim from it now,” he told Yle.

The low water is causing challenges for boaters and anglers, with unexpected rocks and old timber-floating poles emerging from the riverbed. Einola warned that those navigating the river by boat should exercise caution.

Dry winter and early spring to blame
According to Harri Myllyniemi, a researcher at the Finnish Environment Institute, the low water levels stem from this year’s minimal snowfall and early spring. “Water levels are already receding when they should still be rising at this time of year,” he said. No significant rainfall is forecast in the coming weeks to replenish the river.

The low water is particularly impacting recreational activities, but it is also reducing electricity generation at the river’s two hydroelectric plants, operated by Kemijoki Oy. Heikki Poikela, the company’s continuity management director, said the river’s average flow is over 300 cubic metres per second, but current levels are less than half of that.

“Lower flow clearly affects production, and some turbines are currently idle,” Poikela said. The Inkeroinen plant normally produces around 80 gigawatt-hours annually, while Anjalankoski generates about 130 gigawatt-hours. “This year’s output will be lower, though it’s too early to estimate by how much,” he added.

Rafting businesses face difficulties
The shallow water is also causing problems for companies offering whitewater rafting trips. Sauli Orimus, owner of Erämys in Kotka, said the exposed rocks make rafting more hazardous. Kari Niemi, CEO of Seikkailuviikari in Kouvola, noted that test runs this week will determine whether upcoming trips must be switched to calmer paddling routes or postponed.