Finland is preparing for a spell of unsettled weather this weekend as a deep low-pressure system brings heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms to large parts of the country.<\/p>\n
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Forecasters say the change marks the end of a week-long period of warm weather, with temperatures expected to fall below recent levels and remaining well short of heatwave conditions in the coming days.<\/p>\n
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The first wave of rain began moving northwards on Friday after arriving from the south overnight. The system spread precipitation across much of the country and brought gusty winds, while some eastern areas faced the risk of thunderstorms.<\/p>\n
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The Finnish Meteorological Institute said local rainfall totals in southern and central Finland could reach between 30 and 40 millimetres, although most areas are expected to receive between 5 and 20 millimetres.<\/p>\n
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Meteorologist Janika Takala said temperatures would remain below 20\u00b0C in areas affected by rain and cloud cover.<\/p>\n
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A second and stronger low-pressure system is forecast to arrive from the southeast on Saturday. Rain is expected to spread across southern and central Finland during the day before expanding further north overnight.<\/p>\n
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Forecasters said rainfall could become heavy in parts of southern inland areas and western Finland, where totals of 20 to 30 millimetres are possible within 24 hours.<\/p>\n
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Weather models have shown some differences regarding the exact track of the system, creating uncertainty over where the highest rainfall amounts will occur.<\/p>\n
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By Saturday night the centre of the storm is expected to move directly across Finland. Meteorologists warn that the system will deepen as it crosses the country, increasing the risk of damaging winds and widespread rain.<\/p>\n
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Thunderstorms are also possible in eastern regions, particularly in connection with heavier showers.<\/p>\n
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The strongest winds are forecast for Sunday morning.<\/p>\n
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According to forecasts from weather service Foreca, storm-force winds could develop over western sea areas, while inland gusts exceeding 15 metres per second are expected in parts of Ostrobothnia. Coastal areas along the west coast face the highest risk of severe gusts and possible wind damage.<\/p>\n
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Elsewhere, conditions are expected to remain windy throughout Sunday, although gusts should be weaker than those forecast near the coast.<\/p>\n
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