Heatwave triggers sharp rise in drownings and water emergencies across Finland

Drownings and serious water-related incidents have increased in Finland during July, as high temperatures and holiday crowds led to more hazardous situations at beaches and pools across the country.

As of 20 July, seven people have drowned this month, according to the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation (FSL). Dozens of near-drowning cases and incidents requiring emergency resuscitation have also been recorded.