The Weather

The weather here in the north is as changeable as it is impressive. Between October and May, anything can happen: snow, rain, sunshine, and storms often alternate faster than expected. However, one thing is certain: winter tires are mandatory from October. Those who ignore this rule may find themselves in the ditch faster than they’d like. Winter tires are permitted until May 17, and it’s advisable to follow this, as the weather remains unpredictable well into spring.

Our classic winter months are January to mid-March. During this time, snow and ice dominate. But even in other months, I have experienced almost every possible combination in my nearly 30 years here in Nyksund: from biting cold to mild days, from snowfall to rain. This is what makes life on the coast so special. Our roads and paths are often covered with a thick layer of ice. Not only are our cars equipped with studded tires – we also wear spikes under our shoes to get around safely.

On clear winter nights, when snow blankets the fields and mountains, the moonlight is so strong that it casts sharp shadows. In such moments, you can walk through the night without a flashlight. But when storms gather and rain beats against the windows, we barely notice the five hours of daylight. A powerful winter storm with wind speeds of 30 m/s can shut down all traffic – on land, at sea, and in the air. Still, every weather condition has its own appeal. Calm winter days invite you to relax, and a hot drink by the window makes even the wildest storm a fascinating spectacle.

Anyone traveling to the Vesterålen and especially to Nyksund between late autumn and spring should be prepared for anything. But one thing is certain: thanks to the Gulf Stream, the coast here remains milder than in other parts of Norway, such as Oslo. While Nyksund might have a pleasant 5 degrees above zero, nearby Myre, just 20 kilometers away, could be at -5 degrees, and Sortland, only 55 kilometers away on the eastern coast of Vesterålen, could be as cold as -20 degrees. No matter the weather, there are always breaks in the clouds offering glimpses of the northern lights. And with a warm drink in hand and a cozy cabin to retreat to, every winter day becomes a special experience.