Climate change threatens Finnish buildings amid rising flood risks in Mikkeli

Climate change is increasingly challenging Finnish buildings, as evident from recent events such as the heavy rains in early September that caused significant flooding in Mikkeli, inundating several structures. According to Finland’s Environmental Institute, the flood risk in Finland may double or triple by the end of the century. Increased rainfall and humidity pressure buildings even without flooding; milder winters keep moisture levels high, preventing structures from drying out. Windy weather now often results in rain hitting building facades more frequently, which can lead to water damage and mold issues. Additionally, rising soil moisture levels reduce ground stability, and summer droughts can cause land subsidence, particularly in clay-rich areas, potentially damaging pipelines.

In July, global temperatures hit the second-highest recorded for that month. Without cooling systems, indoor temperatures can quickly become unbearable in buildings. Although demand for cooling systems has increased recently, many new constructions still lack these features. An investigation into thirteen newly marketed apartment buildings in Jyväskylä revealed that only three were equipped with cooling systems, while retrofitting was only possible for most.

The Finnish construction industry is gradually recognizing the need for climate-responsive designs, with experts suggesting that regulation, rather than consumer demand alone, will drive significant changes. While efforts are underway to update building regulations to address climate change, most recent updates have focused more on mitigation than adaptation. The last comprehensive update to these regulations occurred in 2018, and subsequent studies are still in the process of being integrated into building standards. As the environment evolves, building codes must be continuously monitored and adjusted accordingly to ensure quality construction that can withstand future climate challenges.