Thousands of travelers are stuck in Finland’s Lapland due to an intense cold spell. Flights from Kittila airport, which serves as a gateway for winter sports and Northern Lights trips, were canceled on Sunday as temperatures plummeted to -35°C. The forecast for Monday isn’t looking better, with temperatures expected to fall to -39°C, causing even more flight cancellations.
The bitter cold is affecting flight operations. De-icing planes becomes tricky, and ground equipment risks freezing. According to Finavia, the airport operator, moisture in the air adds to the ice problem, creating dangerously slippery conditions.
Lapland, engulfed in frigid weather, usually experiences winter temperatures hovering around -14°C. Occasionally, it dips to -30°C. The area draws many visitors eager to ski or catch sight of the Northern Lights, with Rovaniemi airport, further south, serving as the main stop for those hoping to meet Santa Claus.
Travel disruptions are not limited to flights. The icy roads pose significant hazards. Recently, a bus carrying Ukrainian passengers skidded into a ditch without causing serious injuries. Travel issues aren’t confined to Finland; a storm across northern Europe has led to severe weather in the UK, France, and Germany. Reports indicate a tragic incident in England where a tree fell on a caravan, and approximately 100,000 homes lost power in France.
Interestingly, extreme weather patterns like these are becoming more frequent. According to the European Environment Agency, climate change has led to more unpredictable winter weather. A recent study showed that extreme winter temperatures in Europe have increased by nearly 3°C over the last 30 years.
This unusual cold snap highlights the growing challenges travelers face during winter months. Whether you’re on a ski trip or heading to see Santa, being prepared for unexpected conditions is key. For updates on the situation, you can check public resources like Yle or Finavia.
