Summer storm is approaching North Savo

According to the weather forecasts of the Finnish Meteorological Institute, a strong summer storm is heading towards North Savo. The storm is expected to arrive in the next few days, bringing with it heavy rain and strong gusty winds.

The unusual feature of the storm is that it will hit directly during the busiest holiday season. Many people are currently on their summer holidays and have gone out into the countryside, for a holiday in a cottage or on a boat. The Rescue Service is asking people to monitor the weather situation via the authorities and the Meteorological Office.

Strong gusts can knock down trees, tear off roof tiles and throw yard furnishings, posing a risk to people outdoors. Authorities recommend staying indoors during the storm and avoiding unnecessary movement – if necessary, exercise caution and follow up-to-date weather and traffic information.

Rescue Service highlight important preparedness considerations for the different phases of the storm – before, during and after the storm.

The list below is a good one for everyone to read and follow for their own safety:

Before the storm

• Close doors and windows, especially skylights and balcony windows.
• Keep animals indoors and move your car and other similar equipment into the garage and away from trees.
• Turn off all electrical appliances that you can reach.
• Check the moorings of boats and patio furniture, etc.
• Protect or collect from the yard furniture and any other movable items that could cause additional damage if blown in the wind. Stock up on water and food and charge mobile phones and spare batteries.

During a storm

• Move indoors and stay away from windows.
• Call 112 only in urgent emergencies.
• Please be aware that the emergency number and the emergency services will be congested. Assistance may be delayed due to the priority order of tasks.
• Electricity companies monitor their distribution networks around the clock. They are aware of possible disruptions. Please wait until the fault has been repaired and the electricity is restored.
• Do not repair property damage during a storm.
• Watch out for falling trees and power lines.
• When driving, be aware that storm gusts can derail a vehicle or overturn a two-wheeled vehicle. Park your vehicle away from trees and power lines.
• If you are on water, seek the nearest shore if it is safe to do so. Find possible shelter from the wind, e.g. near an island, in a bay, cove. Set sail, moor and anchor the vessel at at least four points.
  

After the storm

• Watch out for fallen trees on the road and warn other road users of objects on the road, for example with a warning triangle.
• Stay at least 20 metres away from damaged power lines.
• Repair damage that you know how to do and that does not pose a risk of further damage. If you do not need help yourself, help a neighbour if necessary.
• Check boat moorings, roof structures, smoke stacks and windows for possible damage.
• Clean rainwater systems, test electrical systems.