lumitykkä

Lumitykkä is a Finnish term that literally translates to "snow stick" or "snow log." It refers to a phenomenon that occurs in cold, snowy conditions, typically in forests. When snow accumulates on tree branches and the wind blows, it can cause these snow-laden branches to sway and rub against each other. This friction, combined with the freezing temperatures, can cause the snow to freeze into solid, icy formations around the branches.

These formations can vary in size and shape, sometimes resembling thick, irregular icicles or lumps of ice clinging to the wood. Lumitykkä is most common in coniferous forests, where the needle-like leaves of pine and spruce trees provide a good surface for snow to adhere. The visual effect can be quite striking, transforming the winter landscape into a sculpted, icy wonderland. While visually appealing, heavy lumitykkä can also pose a risk to trees, as the weight of the ice can cause branches to break. The term is primarily used in Finland to describe this specific natural occurrence.