Finland reports low snow cover across several regions as March temperatures stay above seasonal levels and forecasts point to a sharp divide between warm and cold air near the end of the month. Data from weather stations show gaps from long-term averages and signal a shift in winter patterns.
Parts of Finland hold little or no snow for the time of year, with records set at multiple stations. The Finnish Meteorological Institute said a station at Möksy in Alajärvi recorded zero centimetres of snow on 20 March for the first time in 50 years of data.
The institute shared maps that show low snow depth at more than ten stations across North Karelia, North Savo, North Ostrobothnia and Kainuu. Differences from seasonal norms reach over 50 centimetres in some areas.
Temperatures in March have risen above average across much of the country. In Hämeenlinna, readings reached 11.6°C, close to the season’s peak of 12.5°C recorded in Parikkala. Coastal areas such as Helsinki have seen lower figures due to wind from the sea.
Forecasts for the coming days point to unstable conditions. A flow from the southwest will bring cloud and rain across central and southern regions, while parts of Lapland could receive 10 to 15 centimetres of fresh snow midweek.
Meteorologists said Finland is moving into a boundary zone between contrasting air masses. Warm air from south-east Europe is pushing north, while cold air from the Arctic moves south.
Foreca meteorologist Markus Mäntykannas said the situation near the end of March remains uncertain. He said warm air south of the Gulf of Finland could bring temperatures near 20°C in Estonia, while a cold surge from the Arctic could return winter conditions to Finland.
Model data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts shows potential for temperatures above 15°C in southern Finland before a drop near the turn of the month. The national March record stands at 17.5°C, measured at Helsinki-Vantaa on 27 March 2007.
Cloud cover and wind will limit how far the warm air spreads north. Rain is expected in the south, with snow possible further north. Daily temperatures will vary around five degrees in many areas, with local peaks near ten degrees during clear periods.
Long-range forecasts indicate that early April will stay above average. High pressure is expected to build before Easter, bringing more stable and dry conditions. Daytime temperatures are projected to reach around 8°C in the south, 4 to 8°C in central regions and 0 to 6°C in Lapland.
HT