Multiple roads collapse across Finland after heavy rainfall

Multiple roads have collapsed in Finland following heavy rainfall over the weekend, particularly in the regions of Pirkanmaa and Central Finland. At least a dozen roads have been affected.

In Pirkanmaa, road collapses occurred on routes between Ruovesi and Hanho, as well as on Mäihälahdentie in Ylöjärvi. Central Finland has reported eight road collapses so far, with Multia municipality experiencing the highest number—three roads damaged. Multia recorded 114.2 millimeters of rainfall in 24 hours, the highest precipitation in the country.

In Keuruu, two roads collapsed, while Saarijärvi reported three, including two on the same stretch. The Regional Council of Central Finland stated that repair work is underway and some roads may reopen to traffic later in the evening.

Currently closed roads include:

Tie 621 in Keuruu (collapsed, impassable) Tie 6215 in Keuruu (flooded, impassable) Tie 16779 in Saarijärvi (collapsed, impassable) Tie 16831 in Saarijärvi (impassable) Tie 16827 in Saarijärvi (collapsed in two locations) Tie 16517 in Multia (collapsed, impassable) Tie 16521 in Multia (collapsed, impassable) Tie 16519 in Multia (collapsed, impassable)

The Regional Council of Central Finland urges road users to report any damage suspicions immediately by calling 0200 2100.

Last week, a rare road collapse occurred in Somero, Southwest Finland, when heavy rainfall overwhelmed a drainage culvert. According to road engineer Tero Ahokas, such collapses are uncommon in Finland, and the road had met all safety requirements. Repairs to the Somero road are expected to be extensive.

The timeline for reopening other affected roads remains uncertain, as repair progress depends on the extent of damage and weather conditions.