Water supply disruption affects 18,000 attendees at Ranuan Christian Folk High School in Finland

Almost 18,000 people gathered this weekend at the Ranuan Christian Folk High School for an event organized by the institution. However, the water supply was interrupted, and food distribution had to be adjusted as a result of a pipe break in Rovaniemi on Saturday.

The disruption of the water supply was due to damage to a main water line located about a kilometer from the event area. According to Ranuan Infra Oy, the line was repaired on Saturday, and disinfection of the water network began. Because of the pipe break, the water may be contaminated with disease-causing bacteria. Despite the repair and ongoing disinfection, residents in the areas of Kansanopistontie, Kotilehto, Mahlatie, Rytinimi, and Pekkalantie—starting from Multilahti beach—are advised to boil their water for 5 to 10 minutes. This advisory is in effect until further notice.

Event organizers received notification about the pipe break around 2 PM on Saturday, and washing water distribution was restored by 10 PM. A clean water tank was brought in for drinking water at midnight. Harri Hyväri, chair of the organizing committee, noted, “No water came here from Saturday afternoon until late evening. This affected cooking, hygiene, and restroom facilities, particularly since it was a hot day and drinking water was critical.”

During the pipe break, which coincided with peak attendance of approximately 17,700 people, the event managed to continue with its services, including weekly worship and communion. While pre-prepared meals were sold out, alternative food options like pizza, sausages, and salads were provided.

Hyväri estimated that attendance this year is normal, although past years have seen over 20,000 visitors. The presence of another event in nearby Pudasjärvi may have slightly reduced attendance this year.