Torneträsk, Norrbotten County, Sweden
Lake Torneträsk, known in Swedish as Torne träsk and in Saami as Duortnosjávri, is a significant water body located in Kiruna Municipality in Lapland, within Norrbotten County, Sweden. It is nestled in the Scandinavian Mountains and holds the distinction of being the sixth-largest lake in Sweden. The coordinates of Lake Torneträsk are 68°22′N 019°06′E.
Geographical Features
Spanning a length of 70 kilometers and a width of up to 11 kilometers, Lake Torneträsk covers a surface area of approximately 332 square kilometers. It is known for its remarkable depth, reaching 168 meters at its deepest point, which makes it the second-deepest lake in Sweden. The lake’s substantial depth is attributed to its glacial origins.
Hydrology
The primary inflows to Lake Torneträsk include several rivers and streams such as the Válfojohka, Kamajåkka, Njuoreatnu, and Rágeseatnu, among others. The lake’s outflow is through the Torne River, which flows southeast. This extensive network of inflows and outflow significantly contributes to the lake’s ecological system.
Climate and Ice Cover
Torneträsk’s location in the Lapland region means it is subject to harsh, cold weather conditions. The lake is typically covered with ice from December through June, although this can vary based on annual temperature fluctuations. The area surrounding the lake is known for its permafrost, but recent global warming trends and increased snowfall have started affecting these permafrost regions.
Environmental Significance
The lake’s proximity to the Abisko National Park and its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Laponian area underline its environmental and ecological significance. The region is a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna, with the lake itself playing a crucial role in supporting various species.