No Sunrise in This US Town for 64 Days! Here's Why

Utqiagvik, Alaska, Plunges into Polar Night

The town of Utqiagvik, Alaska, located 330 miles north of the Arctic Circle, has entered a period of darkness known as the polar night. This natural phenomenon occurs when the sun remains below the horizon for an extended period, plunging the region into continuous darkness for weeks or even months. In Utqiagvik, the sun will not be visible for a staggering 64 days, from November 18, 2022, to January 21, 2023.

Causes of the Polar Night

The polar night occurs due to the Earth's axial tilt. As the Earth revolves around the sun, the North Pole tilts away from the sun during winter months, resulting in limited or no sunlight reaching the region. The sun's rays hit the Earth at a lower angle, causing them to bounce back into space instead of illuminating the surface. This absence of sunlight creates the extended period of darkness.

Challenges of the Polar Night

The polar night brings about unique challenges for the residents of Utqiagvik. The lack of sunlight can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to issues with sleep, mood, and overall well-being. The darkness can also make it difficult to perform daily tasks, increasing the risk of accidents. To cope with the polar night, residents rely on artificial light sources, such as streetlights and indoor lighting, to maintain a sense of normalcy. Additionally, they participate in social activities and engage in hobbies to alleviate the mental and emotional effects of the extended darkness.

Effects on Wildlife and Environment

The polar night also has significant impacts on wildlife and the environment. Many animal species, including polar bears, seals, and walruses, rely on sunlight for hunting and navigation. The lack of sunlight can disrupt their feeding patterns and make it more challenging for them to find prey. The darkness can also affect plant growth, as the absence of sunlight limits photosynthesis. Despite the challenges, the polar night is a natural phenomenon that has shaped the lives of the people and wildlife of Utqiagvik for centuries.

Tourism and Cultural Significance

While the polar night can be a challenging time for residents, it also attracts tourists seeking a unique Arctic experience. Visitors come from all over the world to witness this natural wonder and participate in winter activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and aurora viewing. The polar night is also an important cultural event for the Inupiat people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. They celebrate the return of the sun with traditional festivals and ceremonies that honor the resilience and strength of their community.