The scorching temperatures in Finland have officially reached record-breaking levels this year. The Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) announced that on Thursday, for the 66th time in 2021, temperatures surpassed 25 degrees Celsius, breaking the country's previous record of 65 hot days in 2002. The FMI, which has been tracking heat data since 1961, reported that the heat wave is expected to continue and temperatures are projected to hit 25 degrees in some areas on Friday and possibly Saturday. This comes after a report from the FMI in July, which revealed that temperatures in central and northern parts of Finland were unusually high.
Finland Breaks All-Time Record for Hot Days
Finland is experiencing record-breaking heat this summer, with temperatures soaring past 25 degrees Celsius for the 66th time this year. This exceeds the previous record of 65 hot days set in 2002.
According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI), the heat wave is expected to continue with temperatures remaining above 25 degrees in some areas on Friday and Saturday. The FMI, which has been monitoring heat data since 1961, says this is the longest-lasting heat wave recorded in Finland.
The heat is particularly unusual for northern parts of Finland, where temperatures are typically much cooler. In July, the FMI reported that temperatures in central and northern regions were abnormally high, reaching 25 degrees Celsius for the first time since 1975.
Causes of the Heat Wave
The heat wave in Finland is part of a larger pattern of extreme weather events occurring worldwide due to climate change. Rising global temperatures are causing changes in weather patterns, resulting in more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, and other extreme events.
In Finland, the heat wave is also being influenced by a high-pressure system over Scandinavia, trapping warm air and preventing it from escaping.
Impact of the Heat Wave
The heat wave has had a significant impact on Finland. The hot weather has led to increased air pollution, as smog forms in the warm and stagnant air. The heat has also caused problems for infrastructure, with roads and railways buckling under the extreme temperatures.
The heat wave has also posed a health risk, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions. The FMI has issued warnings for people to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day.
FAQs
Q: Why is Finland having a heat wave?
A: The heat wave is part of a larger pattern of extreme weather events occurring worldwide due to climate change and is also being influenced by a high-pressure system over Scandinavia.
Q: How long will the heat wave last?
A: The heat wave is expected to continue for several more days, with temperatures remaining above 25 degrees in some areas until Saturday.
Q: What is the impact of the heat wave?
A: The heat wave has led to increased air pollution, problems with infrastructure, and health risks for vulnerable populations.
Q: What precautions should people take?
A: People should stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day, and check in on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
Q: What can be done to mitigate the effects of climate change and prevent future heat waves?
A: Mitigating the effects of climate change requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions through measures such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, conserving energy, and investing in research and development of low-carbon technologies.
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