Regional water situation

Eastern and Southeast Finland 15.9.

In the Vuoksi river basin, the water levels of several lakes have risen to levels typical of the time of year. In North Savo, the water levels of smaller lakes are already higher than usual in places. However, the water levels in Sysmä, which is located near Viinijärvi and Joroinen, are still approximately 30 cm below the average level due to the low snow cover in the winter and early and dry spring. Of the large lakes, the water levels of Lake Kallavesi and Lake Pielinen are close to the average level of the season. The water level in Lake Saimaa will only start rising later in the autumn.

The water level of Lake Saimaa is nearly half a metre below the long-term seasonal average. Exceptional flow regulation was initiated in Lake Saimaa at the end of March to reduce the harmful effects of low water levels. The water level is now over 40 cm higher than the natural level. The water level is expected to still remain close to the current level in September. The water level is likely to start rising slowly in October and November.

The water level of Lake Kallavesi has already risen slightly above the average level of the season. More heavy rainfall is forecast in the catchment area of Lake Kallavesi, which will raise the water level by 15-30 cm by the end of September.

The water level of Lake Pielinen is now close to its average seasonal level. According to the forecast, the water level will rise by 0–30 cm in September. The water level is forecast to rise slightly at the end of September. In October, the development of the water level will depend on the precipitation levels of the following weeks.