Helsinki: Töölönlahti Bay Floods Amidst Construction

Töölönlahti Bay in Helsinki is currently experiencing flooding, with water levels rising onto pedestrian pathways. The inundation is a direct consequence of ongoing flood protection construction work at the bay, which aims to enhance its defenses with new floodgates and pumping stations.

Project manager Juuso Luoto explained that the construction, slated to continue until autumn 2027, has temporarily restricted the connection between Töölönlahti and Eläintarhanlahti bays. This closure, combined with heavy rainfall earlier in the week, has led to the current flooding situation. While the connection to Eläintarhanlahti has now been reopened, Luoto noted that it will take some time for the water level in Töölönlahti to recede, estimating it would not happen by Tuesday evening.

The rising water has further narrowed the already constricted pedestrian routes around the bay. The Helsinki Nature Conservation Association previously raised concerns in March, submitting a letter to the permits and supervision authority. They demanded an urgent investigation into the legality of the flood protection construction methods, arguing that the solutions implemented hinder the water exchange between Töölönlahti and Eläintarhanlahti, and have completely blocked it for significant periods during winter.

Luoto acknowledged that the current situation, where the bridge opening is dammed for about a week, is the specific period the association highlighted. He mentioned that pumping water was planned as a contingency measure if flooding occurred. A water level gauge at the construction site is used to monitor levels against planned flood limits. "The elevation on the Töölönlahti Park pedestrian pathway side may not now match our planned data," Luoto stated. "It's good that we found out now and could take action." An outdoor gym area has also been partially submerged.

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The elevation on the Töölönlahti Park pedestrian pathway side may not now match our planned data. It's good that we found out now and could take action.