Avoid these areas – Currents and sunlight weaken the ice in Tampere's waterways

For safe moving on ice, Lake Näsijärvi is recommended instead of Lake Pyhäjärvi.
Map graphic showing weak ice areas in Tampere.
The ice has melted or is weak in the red areas.

Water flow and abundant sunshine have weakened the load-bearing capacity of ice in certain areas of Tampere's waterways.

Especially in areas with strong currents, the ice may appear to be strong, even though it has actually become dangerously thin. The spring sun also weakens thick ice cover, rapidly changing its structure.

Areas you should not enter without knowing the area

  • Upper reaches of the Tammerkoski rapids
  • Ahdinränni (Ranta-Tampella canal)
  • Lielahti (the shore areas between Hiedanranta, Niemenranta, and Lentävänniemi)
  • Tammerkoski area
  • Ratinan backwater
  • The basin on the center side of Pyhäjärvi, i.e., Viinikanlahti, and the area between Pyynikki, Eteläpuisto, Hatanpää, and Viikinsaari
  • Pyhäjärvi straits, such as the Rajasalmi bridge area

Näsijärvi is currently safer for walking on ice than Pyhäjärvi. On Näsijärvi and other non-flowing water areas, the ice is almost 40 centimeters thick in places, which is sufficient for safe walking.

However, Tuomas Salovaara, Port Manager for the City of Tampere, reminds us that even familiar ice areas require caution.

– You should always wear appropriate equipment when walking on ice, use your common sense, and familiarize yourself with the area you are walking on.

It is advisable to travel on the ice in a group or at least inform your loved ones of your movements and plans.

Further information

Tuomas Salovaara
Port Manager for the City of Tampere
Phone:
040 351 7567
Text: Aleksis Villanen
Photos: Veli-Matti Lahdenniemi
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