The weather forecast in Finland over the Midsummer weekend calls for warm temperatures but unstable conditions.
The hottest temperatures of the past several days' heatwave have subsided, and slightly cooler conditions are expected on Friday (Midsummers' Eve), Saturday (Midsummer Day) and Sunday, according to Yle meteorologist Matti Huutonen.
"On Friday we'll be at around 25-27 degrees in the south. The sun will shine at least at some points during the day, although there is the possibility of local showers," Huutonen said.
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However, thunderstorms and heavy rain are possible in southern and western areas. The heaviest rain — as well as strong winds — will likely be seen in southern parts of the country.
The hot, humid nights that many areas of the country experienced over the past several days will not be repeated over the weekend, Huutonen said, adding that he anticipated average nighttime temperatures of around 15 degrees.
Warmer than usual
This Midsummer will be around three to four degrees warmer than average for the holiday, he said.
Recent rain and thunderstorms have brought much needed water to the country, meaning that people in some areas will be able to enjoy traditional Midsummer bonfires, Huutonen said, adding that people should check if conditions are safe for lighting fires in their area.
For up-to-date information on where brush and forest fire warnings are in effect, head to the Finnish Meteorological Institute's (FMI) warning page.
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The FMI has also issued warnings for heavy thunderstorms in central and southern areas on Friday and Saturday, but they will not likely be as powerful as the storms seen in some parts of the country earlier this week, for example the storm that hit Oulu on Monday.
Temperatures in southern and central areas on Saturday will range between 22-27 degrees, with possible local showers and thunderstorms. But Huutonen said the rain would not last long and not be continuous.
In Finnish Lapland, temperatures of just above or below 20 degrees are expected throughout the weekend.