Wildfires spread to buildings in Urjala and Heinävesi

Wildfires have reached residential buildings in Urjala, Pirkanmaa, and Heinävesi, North Karelia, Finnish public broadcaster Yle reports.

In Urjala, a fire that ignited on Sunday afternoon near the Tampere–Turku highway (Route 9) has spread to structures along Hakkilanrantatie. The Finnish Transport Agency warns that thick smoke from the blaze is reducing visibility on the highway near Uudensalmentie, forcing the closure of one lane. Emergency services received the alert shortly after 2:30 PM and are currently conducting firefighting operations.

In Heinävesi, North Karelia, a separate wildfire that began in an open field has extended into a residential yard and its buildings. Firefighting efforts are underway with eight emergency response units deployed from North Karelia and North Savo.

Updates on the situation are expected as operations continue.