Heatwave expected for Midsummer in Finland

Finland is set for warm and sunny Midsummer celebrations, with temperatures possibly breaking the 25°C heatwave threshold in parts of the country, according to Yle meteorologist Henriikka Heikinoja.

Juhannus (Midsummer) Eve on Friday will be largely dry nationwide, with sunshine across much of Finland. Temperatures in the south and west will rise above 20°C, while the east remains noticeably cooler.

On Midsummer Day (Saturday), rain is expected in Lapland, but warm air will push into southern and central regions, with possible heatwave conditions. The weather will be mostly sunny, though cloud cover may increase in the west by afternoon.

Heikinoja noted that forest fire warnings are not in effect, leaving no weather-related obstacles for grilling or lighting bonfires. Water temperatures in some lakes, such as Saimaa’s Lauritsala and Säkylä’s Pyhäjärvi, have already reached 18°C, favoring swimmers.

UV radiation will be strong in southern and some western areas over the weekend, prompting advice to use protective clothing, seek shade, and apply sunscreen properly. Health authorities recommend drinking sufficient water—up to two liters daily in heat—and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.

Sunday may bring rain and possible thunderstorms, with severe storms forecast for southern and central Finland. A wind warning is also in place for Sodankylä, though forecasts may still shift.