2024 was exceptionally warm in Finland
Finland had a warmer than usual year in 2024, according to the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI).
The nationwide average temperature was 4.0 degrees Celsius, which is 1.1 degrees Celsius above the long-term average from the years 1991–2020.
The largest deviation occurred in Northern Lapland, where temperatures were 1.7 degrees Celsius above the average.
FMI reported that the average temperature in Northern Lapland was exceptionally high, with many observation stations recording their warmest annual averages on record.
The southern part of the country also experienced a notably warm year.
Only January and April were colder than usual across the country. The remaining months were warmer than average.
Annual precipitation was also above average in most parts of the country, with the western regions experiencing particularly high or even exceptional rainfall.
The year 2024 is set to be the warmest on record globally, capping a decade of unprecedented heat fuelled by human activities, according to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Be wary of thin ice amid mild weather conditions, says hunter in Fort Smith, N.W.T., CBC News
Finland: Finland set for New Year’s freeze, Yle News
Russia: Spring temperatures break records in Russia and Norway, The Independent Barents Observer
United States: Arctic weather satellite leaving Europe for June launch in U.S., Eye on the Arctic
Concerningly, Finland, known for its beautiful, chilly winters, is witnessing such significant temperature spikes. The Finnish Meteorological Institute data shows how climate change is affecting stable regions and its urgency. Northern Lapland’s hottest yearly temperatures are disturbing, highlighting human activity’s influence on the world. Increased yearly precipitation, especially in the west, may harm local ecosystems. These trends must be addressed immediately to save our ecosystem!