In recent weeks the Oulu sun has beamed more often from behind the clouds, writes Edwin T’Lam. Spring is in the air.

Weather forecasts for Oulu predict daytime temperatures of from one to ten degrees celsius over the rest of March, with sunny weather and variable winds spelling the end of the ski season in Oulu.
 

Often it is still possible to ski well during March. Many skiiers consider this the nicest month because of the combination of snow, clear skies and sunshine. But this year the quality of the tracks is miserable, and the snow has melted or will continue melting.  

High temperatures aren’t affecting only Finland or Scandinavia. Large parts of Europe are contending with above-average warmth this winter. According to KNMI, the Royal Dutch Meteorology Institute, and ECA, the European Climate Assessment, wind direction and global warming have contributed most to the mild weather.

Winds have blown almost constantly from a southwesterly direction, according to data; the relatively warm Atlantic Ocean warms these winds, and the present temperatures, in turn, could effectuate a warm spring.
 
The conditions were awful for the 118th Tervahiihto, Oulu’s biggest ski event with nearly 900 competitors including professionals and amateur skiiers, which took place on March 10. Parts of the course had to be rerouted. Sparse snow prevented many skiers from passing, and many struggled with the temperatures. Moreover the snow started melting during midday and stuck to the skis. Sliding got worse during the day.

Local enthusiast Tuire Valkonen, who took part in the competition for the second time, also faced the harsh circumstances. She couldn't beat her personal record and had to be satisfied with a time just under four hours.