ylivuotoalueet
Ylivuotoalueet, literally translated as "overflow areas," are designated land zones in Finland that are intentionally managed to accommodate excess water during heavy precipitation or rapid snowmelt. The primary objective of ylivuotoalueet is to reduce downstream flooding by temporarily storing water in naturally low-lying areas such as depressions, wetlands, riverbeds, and man‑made retention basins. The retained water is later released slowly or pumped out once normal flow conditions resume.
The concept originated from the Water Act of 2003 and was expanded by subsequent water planning regulations.
Typical characteristics of a ylivuotoalue include shallow topography, permeability, and a connection to the main watercourse
Ylivuotoalueet play a crucial role in climate‑adaptation strategies. By providing a flexible buffer against extreme rainfall