Winter weather conditions

The Arctic weather conditions in the north of the Gulf of Bothnia are particularly variable. Nature is very unpredictable at these latitudes. Mild fair weather can change into a raging blizzard at a moment's notice. Temperatures in mid–winter may fall to nearly –40°C. Conversely, one can enjoy late–winter temperatures exceeding +20°C in the sun, in the midst of an icy landscape!

If you are considering an icy adventure, it is good to know that the personnel serving you is prepared to act under difficult conditions. Additionally, all of our personnel are our own educators of the north – for them, survival in nature is a fact of life. The trips are completely safe. All angles have been covered, right down to the very last.

In the cold

Always dress accordingly, because even slight sub–zero temperatures can easily be unexpectedly cold to those who are unaccustomed. Dressing in layers is the most effective way to keep warm, for example:

• A wool under layer of clothing
• a warm intermediary layer of fleece, permeable to moisture, to collect and eliminate body moisture
• a layer of windproof clothing of breathable material
• The head, hands and feet are more vulnerable to the cold, so protect these body parts with special care.
• Lip balm is an effective means of preventing chapped lips
• staying in motion will keep you warm

In the sun

The late winter sun can be dazzlingly bright; snow and ice multiply the intensity of the sun, so protect your eyes with appropriate sunglasses

In the wind

A hard wind adds a wind–chill factor, which should be considered even when the thermometer shows only some degrees below zero