Dry soil absorbed most rainfall as lake levels remain exceptionally low

Most of Finland’s recent rainfall has been absorbed by parched soil, leaving lake levels still far below normal, according to a report by Yle.

Water levels in major lakes such as Saimaa and Päijänne are about 40 centimetres lower than average, despite efforts to regulate them. Tarjannevesi in Pirkanmaa is at a historic low, with levels nearly a metre below normal in late spring and now 55 centimetres lower than usual.

Hydrology expert Jukka Sainio of the Southwest Finland Vitality Centre said prolonged drought means most rainwater is absorbed by dry soil, used by plants, or remains in small headwater systems. Sustained heavy rainfall would be needed to improve the situation.

Low water levels are disrupting recreation, with many docks left high and dry, making swimming and boating difficult. Some boat owners on Lake Saimaa have kept vessels in storage all summer.

Groundwater levels are the greatest concern, Sainio said, with reserves in major aquifers critically low and still falling. Without significant rainfall, shortages could spread nationwide and persist into autumn.