November storm tested Finland’s power grids and utility companies’ readiness

The “Jari” storm, which swept through Finland in November 2024, was an exceptionally powerful and long-lasting event that put power grids and utility companies’ repair readiness to the test. Gusts reached up to 34.2 meters per second, toppling trees and damaging power lines. Wet snow, accumulating up to 28 centimeters in a single day, bent trees onto power lines, exacerbating the damage. The storm’s extraordinary duration and combination of extreme conditions made it one of the most challenging power distribution crises in recent years. For instance, Elenia's network suffered its worst damage in nine years, with the company reporting over 1,400 repair sites.

In the Eye of the Jari storm

The Jari storm gave no breathing room to utility companies. Strong, gusty winds brought down trees onto power lines, cutting electricity to tens of thousands of households. Wet snow accumulated on branches, bending them onto power lines and causing new damage before earlier issues had been addressed. Meanwhile, persistent rainfall in some areas made terrain difficult to traverse for field teams. The combined effects of these factors made repairs not only slow but exceptionally demanding for repair crews.

The storm vs. modern tools

Despite the extensive damage caused by the Jari storm and the challenging conditions it created, utility companies were not left helpless. Modern technologies, such as Fault Location, Isolation & Service Restoration (FLISR), DMS (Distribution Management System), and the Utility To Go application, were crucial in responding to the crisis. These systems enabled the rapid identification of fault locations and seamless communication between field crews and control centers. The widespread nature of the storm’s damage, spanning large areas, demanded precise planning and coordination. Real-time, map-based views helped prioritize critical repairs effectively, reducing unnecessary work and travel.

As Elenia's Operations Manager Teemu Suvela aptly summarizes: “Resource and task management once again enabled systematic and prioritized fault handling while providing an accurate overview of the workload.”

Challenges of Fieldwork in Finland’s November Gloom

November in Finland is synonymous with short days, pervasive darkness, and cold, damp conditions, creating unique challenges for outdoor work. With daylight lasting only a few hours and the skies often overcast, field teams frequently found themselves working in twilight or complete darkness during the Jari storm. Wet snow and persistent drizzle made tools slippery and uncomfortable to use, while strong winds posed risks when using aerial work platforms. Trees bent under the weight of snow or partially toppled by the storm added another layer of danger, as they could collapse entirely during repairs, forcing crews to halt and reassess their safety. 

Despite these conditions, utility companies, equipped with tools like the Utility To Go application, were able to coordinate their efforts effectively, ensuring steady progress and maintaining safety even in these difficult circumstances.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

The Jari storm was a valuable lesson in the importance of preparing for extreme conditions. Long-term investments by utility companies, such as underground cabling, significantly reduced the damage caused by the storm. Without these measures, the storm could have caused a complete disaster in areas like Elenia's network in Pirkanmaa and Central Finland.

Modern systems also proved their worth, speeding up repairs and enhancing safety. Weather-resilient power grids and real-time management systems are not merely beneficial but essential for managing future storms. Jari Storm serves as a reminder that effective power distribution relies on proactive preparation, advanced technology, and dedicated professionals. With these in place, we’ll be better equipped to face the challenges of the next storm.