A severe winter storm named Hannes has paralyzed northern Finland's Lapland region this week, grounding flights, stranding over 1,000 travelers, and causing widespread infrastructure damage as of December 30, 2025. The disruption comes during Lapland's peak tourism season, with Rovaniemi Airport repurposing decommissioned terminal space to accommodate stranded passengers.
Finavia, Finland's state airport operator, reported 20+ flight cancellations/delays in Lapland since Saturday. While Kittila and Ivalo airports resumed operations Saturday evening, limited hotel availability forced the Finnish Red Cross to provide emergency bedding at overcrowded terminals. Airlines face logistical challenges arranging alternative transport due to Lapland's remote location and seasonal flight schedules.
The storm also crippled power networks across Finland and Sweden, leaving 190,000 Finnish households without electricity at its peak. Finnish rail operator VR reported 7-hour train delays affecting 10,000 passengers. Three storm-related fatalities occurred in Sweden from falling trees.
Tourism officials are calling for improved contingency plans as climate extremes threaten Lapland's winter travel economy. Visit Rovaniemi CEO Sanna Karkkainen told local media: 'We must strengthen preparedness systems to protect both visitors and residents during extreme weather events.'
