Snowstorm disrupts Kanta-Häme region in Finland with fallen pine branches

In the Kanta-Häme region of Finland, a recent snowstorm has caused significant disturbances, leading to broken pine branches falling, some measuring up to 15 meters in length. Residents have reported loud cracking sounds from pine trees, with many branches littering areas along motorways.

Saara Suutarla, a resident of Hämeenlinna’s Kankaantaka neighborhood, noted the unusual frequency of branches hitting the ground. “While we were outside on Friday, there were constant thuds and crashes as long pine branches snapped off and fell,” she recounted. Suutarla mentioned that branches are still falling, prompting her family to advise their daughter against going outside alone.

The cleanup efforts have kept local businesses busy, including JK Pihapuut, which has been working all day to manage the aftermath. Jani Kurvista from the company remarked, “This snow came down so quickly; I can’t recall a time when this many branches fell at once.” He also added that rotten trees have broken apart, with specific damage noted among lilac bushes, stating that the entire weekend will be spent addressing the situation.

At the Riihimäki cemetery, the combination of wet and heavy snow has caused pine branches to fall on pathways. Hanna Lehtonen, the acting chief gardener of the Riihimäki congregation, cautioned visitors to exercise caution during All Saints’ Day, as the trees remain heavy and snow could continue to fall throughout the weekend. Cleanup is scheduled for Monday.