Heatwave grips nearly all of Finland

Temperatures have soared across most of Finland, with the highest readings recorded in Southeast Finland and parts of Lapland, Yle reports.

Southeast Finland saw the peak heat, exceeding 29°C, while South and East Lapland reached around 27°C. Strong thunderstorms with heavy rain are possible on Sunday, with some showers expected in Southwest Finland as early as tonight, according to Yle meteorologist Aleksi Lohtander.

In Helsinki’s Alppipuisto park, residents shared mixed feelings about the heat. Some, like Hyvinkää’s Marika Häkkilä, still enjoy occasional sunbathing, while others, such as Helsinki’s Jesse Talsi, prefer the shade. Nine-year-old Miroslav Bondarenko from Vantaa thrives in the warmth, often spending time fishing. Priska Knuutinen and Erkki Salo both avoid the sun—Knuutinen retreats indoors, and Salo cites UV radiation as a health risk.

Others, like Johanna Mikkonen, embrace the sunshine after a rainy start to summer, while Mohammad Sheraftzadeh and Mariam Hasseini adjust based on the day’s conditions. Rolf Karlsson, working outdoors, welcomes the sun but seeks shade during long workdays.