Fortum forecasts lower spring flood levels in several areas

Energy company Fortum anticipates the onset of spring floods as warmer weather arrives, but forecasts lower than normal flows in several river systems. Reduced snowpack in the drainage areas of both the Dalälven and Klarälven rivers is cited as the primary reason for the predicted decrease in flood levels.

In the Dalälven region, snow accumulation is below average in several locations. The Trängslet reservoir has been emptied earlier than usual for dam safety work, resulting in a higher water level in Lake Siljan. A significant increase in flow for the Västerdalälven is not expected for several weeks, pending snowmelt in the mountains. Flows in the lower Dalälven are expected to remain stable until Easter.

For the Klarälven, the Höljes reservoir has been pre-emptively emptied. While snow is beginning to melt in northern Värmland, a substantial increase in flow is not anticipated until late next week at the earliest. Higher flows in the Klarälven are not expected for several more weeks. The Byälven, Norsälven, and Gullspångsälven river systems also have less snow than usual, thereby reducing flood risk.

Snow levels vary across the Ljusnan river basin, but overall, the amount of snow to melt is significantly less than average. Many lakes are also at lower levels than normal. Despite the reduced risk of high flows, weather developments, including precipitation and temperature changes, will influence the actual water levels.

Fortum will continue to monitor the situation and provide updated forecasts. More detailed information regarding mountain runoff is expected the week after Easter.