siirtymäkausien

Siirtymäkausien is a Finnish term that translates to "transitional periods" or "intermediate seasons." It refers to the periods between the four distinct seasons of summer, autumn, winter, and spring. These transitional periods are characterized by gradual changes in weather, temperature, and daylight hours, leading from one main season to the next.

In Finland, the most prominent transitional periods are spring (kevät) and autumn (syksy). Spring marks the transition from winter to summer, where snow melts, temperatures rise, and nature begins to awaken. This period can be quite variable, with days of warmth interspersed with late snowfalls or cold snaps. Autumn signifies the shift from summer to winter, with falling leaves, decreasing temperatures, and shorter days. The colors of autumn foliage are a notable characteristic of this siirtymäkausi.

While less emphasized, there are also subtle transitions between summer and autumn, and between winter and spring. The late summer might still feel summery, but the first signs of autumn's approach, like cooler evenings or changing leaf colors, indicate a siirtymäkausi. Similarly, the very end of winter can feel like a transition towards spring, even before the significant melting of snow. These periods are important for understanding the dynamic nature of Finnish climate and the rhythms of the natural world.