Groundwater leak surprises researchers in Köyliö, Säkylä

In Köyliö, Säkylä, a groundwater leak that has persisted for five months is surprising researchers. Joni Mäkinen, a lecturer in geography and geology at the University of Turku, has noted the scale of the leak as exceptional. Approximately 6,000 cubic meters of water are released daily.

Mäkinen explained that pressurized groundwater leaks do occur occasionally but are usually manageable. The current situation is complicated by the significant depth of the clay layer and the strong water pressure. The amount of water being released is notably high.

The leak was caused by an error during soil investigations, where a pipe intended to monitor groundwater levels was installed too deeply.

Despite the extensive leak, there have been no significant changes in groundwater levels elsewhere in the Säkylä region. Mäkinen predicts minimal overall impact due to the long duration of the leak. “There are large water reserves in the area. The released water flows into Lake Köyliön. Significant environmental impacts are not anticipated unless there are substantial changes in the pathways of the leaking water,” he remarked.

Efforts to mitigate the leak have thus far been unsuccessful. Mäkinen speculated that a new permanent spring might form at the site, which could be monitored through installed wells.