Regional water situation

Eastern and Southeast Finland 2.6.

In the Vuoksi river basin, the winter was low in snow, and the snow melted exceptionally early. The peak water levels of the spring in rivers and natural lakes were record-low in many places and occurred approximately one month earlier than the normal spring flood season. Rainfall remained low in March-April, which has further exacerbated the situation. In May, heavy rainfall has raised the water levels of smaller rivers and increased runoff in North Savo and North Karelia. However, for large lakes to rise to normal levels would require an even longer period of heavy rainfall.

The water levels of natural lakes are exceptionally low. For example, the water levels of Lakes Viinijärvi, Viiksinselkä and Saarijärvi in Kaavi are at their lowest recorded levels for the season. It will be challenging to reach the summer target levels in regulated lakes. For example, the water levels of Lake Juojärvi and Lake Höytiäinen will remain lower than usual in early summer, unless the weather remains very rainy in the coming weeks.

The water level of Lake Kallavesi is now approximately half a metre below its seasonal average. After last week’s rainfall, the decrease in water level has stabilised, and the water level has risen by a few centimetres. The water level is forecast to start declining in June unless the weather is rainier than normal. In June, the water level will remain unusually low.

The water level of Lake Pielinen is approximately 60 cm below the seasonal average. Exceptional flow regulation began in Lake Pielinen in early April. According to the forecast, the water level will remain close to its current level until the end of June. The water level will be exceptionally low for the season in June.

The water level of Lake Saimaa is approximately 30 cm 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 forecast to remain close to its current level until the end of June. In July, the development of the water level depends on the precipitation in June and July.