A person walks past a digital display indicating a temperature of minus 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) in Ylläs, Finland, on Friday, January 9, 2026. (Satu Renko/Lehtikuva via AP)Credit: APEXTREME cold has grounded multiple flights and left thousands of tourists stranded in Lapland.
Temperatures plummeted to an astonishing -35C at Kittila airport, resulting in cancellations of flights to London, Bristol, Manchester, Paris, and Amsterdam.
Thousands are stranded in LaplandCredit: Alamy
Sub-zero temperatures have forced tourists to remain in the Arctic regionCredit: Getty
During the winter months, travelers flock to northern Finland to experience the snowy landscape and marvel at the beauty of the region.
However, due to the severe sub-zero temperatures, tourists have been compelled to remain in the area.
These frigid conditions complicate the de-icing process, which is essential to ensure aircraft safety for flying.
Additionally, it can cause refueling and maintenance equipment to freeze on the ground before takeoff.
Lapland's weather is forecasted to become even colder tomorrow, with Finland's meteorological agency predicting temperatures as low as -39C.
This winter is particularly severe for the region, which typically experiences an average winter temperature of -14C, with only occasional drops to -30C.
For tourists staying at nearby ski resorts, Kittila airport serves as the closest commercial air hub.
For those wishing to visit Santa Claus’ home, taking an inbound flight to Rovaniemi is the closest option, according to local folklore.
Flights were canceled in and out of Kittila on Friday and Saturday, with one flight departing from Rovaniemi also canceled on Sunday.
Finland’s airport operator, Finavia, informed Finnish broadcasting company Yle that moisture in the air worsened the situation by creating slippery frost.
This has also rendered roads hazardous, with Fintraffic, the country’s traffic control service, warning of icy conditions in the area.
A bus carrying Ukrainian passengers crashed into a ditch this morning, but fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported.
The unusually cold weather is attributed to a storm passing over northern Europe, which has caused temperature drops and travel disruptions in France, Germany, and the UK.
Brits are contending with the aftermath of fallen trees crushing homes and cars, while road vehicles face perilous conditions.
These frigid conditions complicate the de-icing of planesCredit: Alamy
Temperatures are predicted to drop to -39CCredit: AP
Emergency services were dispatched to a scene in Helston after a tree fell onto a caravan, causing no serious injuries.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for additional snowfall, indicating a risk of heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding.
This follows a rare red warning for “dangerous, stormy” winds issued by forecasters earlier this week.
Table of Contents
- Extreme Cold in Lapland
- Flight Cancellations
- Tourist Experience
- Hazardous Conditions
- Weather Impact on Travel
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the extreme cold in Lapland?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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