Mid-February status

Another update from the test tiles at Kilpisjärvi. Conditions remain pretty much the same in terms of snow cover, although the temperatures have dropped considerably. These photographs were taken on 18^th February 2011 and can be compared to the ones taken on 31^st January 2011.

Superficially, the raised tile looks in good condition. From what we can see, all the anchors are holding well, and there has been minimal shifting of the tile. What might be a concern, however, is the condition of anchor lines and the build up of ice, as opposed to light snow. Temperatures are continuing to descend, with recent depths of –30 degrees C.


The ground tile remains an unknown. The snow cover remains just as deep as before, which in reality will mean a greater mass, as the snow will slowly become more densely packed with time.

It will be very interesting to see what emerges in the summer!

Photo credits: Markku Postila