FINLAND STRUGGLE TO COPE WITH WILDFIRES SWEEPING ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Sat 18 May 2024:

The widespread effects of the recent dry weather were highlighted by the fact that by Saturday afternoon, Finnish emergency services had responded to 21 wildfire occurrences throughout the country.

According to national broadcaster Yle, fires have been reported in several regions, with significant blazes in western Ilmajoki and central Keuruu.

In Ilmajoki, a wildfire that began in a peat production area spread to a nearby forest on Saturday afternoon. The fire in the peat area has mostly been extinguished, but efforts to control the forest fire are ongoing. The blaze has affected 9-10 hectares, and the cause remains unknown. The South Ostrobothnia Rescue Department has deployed 18 units to the scene.

In Keuruu, Central Finland, a controlled burn for forest management spread across three hectares. The fire has been contained, with 20 units from Central Finland, South Ostrobothnia, and Pirkanmaa rescue services responding.

Another fire in Karstula, also in Central Finland, spread over approximately one hectare and is suspected to have been caused by a car tire blowout. Thirteen units have been dispatched to the area.

In Siikainen, Satakunta, multiple hectares have been affected by wildfires, with 25 units and a Border Guard helicopter engaged in firefighting efforts. Although no buildings are at risk, extinguishing the fires is expected to take several more hours.

A forest fire warning issued by the Finnish Meteorological Institute is in effect for most of the country. The persistent dry and warm weather throughout the week has significantly dried out large areas. Rescue services remind the public that open fires are prohibited during a forest fire warning.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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