With the rapid rise in temperatures driving conditions have become hazardous in the south and west as well as large parts of the north of the country. At the same time, warming temperatures create an increased risk of water pipes bursting.
"When temperatures rise quickly the air becomes more humid, road surfaces freeze over and roads become more slippery," explains YLE Meteorologist Toni Hellinen. ”Frost forms on road surfaces, something that is deceptive for drivers because you don't notice it until your tyres start sliding. Drivers are aware of the hazards when it is snowing, but the slippery nature of the roads right now is treacherous," Hellinen warns.
Another problem that comes with fast rising temperatures is the risk of burst water pipes, especially in areas where there have been lower levels of snow cover that provide a type of natural insulation against harsh temperatures.
As pipes warm, any ice trapped inside also warms and expands and may cause a rupture. The risk of bursting pipes is highest for single-family houses and terraced houses. Residents are often urged to open water taps to permit a continuous trickle from their pipes. The water that goes to waste is considerable less than what would be lost if a pipe bursts.
Saturday's highs in western areas are expected to range between -1C and -8C. In the east and north temperatures are forecast between -5C and -15C, with readings of -20C in some parts of northern Lapland.
Sunday's forecast includes the chance of 5cm to 10cm of fresh snow in southern and western areas.
