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    When does it start snowing in Finland?

    First snow, permanent snow cover and the start of winter by region.

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    Short answer

    The Finnish Meteorological Institute says the first snow falls in September in northern Finland and in October in the rest of the country. Snow that stays usually arrives about two weeks after thermal winter begins: from mid-October in Lapland, in November in most of Finland and in December in the southwestern archipelago.

    Weather & Seasons

    Why

    1. FMI says the first snow falls in September in the north and in October elsewhere.
    2. According to FMI, permanent snow cover arrives about two weeks after the start of winter.
    3. Visit Finland says snow covers the north from November and most of the country by late December.

    Details

    In the south, early snow often melts again, and some recent winters have had little or no snow before January.

    Tip

    For a snowy trip in November or early December, choose Lapland. Southern Finland may still be grey and wet.

    What may differ

    Every winter is different. A single cold spell can bring snow to Helsinki in October, and a mild one can melt it in December.

    Common misconception

    Finland is covered in snow from October to April everywhere.

    What actually happens

    Only the north has such a long snow season. The southwestern coast has snow for about three to four months.

    People also ask

    • Does it snow in Helsinki in November?
    • When does snow come to Lapland?
    • Is there snow in Finland in October?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Weather varies a lot from year to year, so check the forecast of the Finnish Meteorological Institute before you travel.

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