Current Weather in Helsinki

For the people of Finland, climate has a significant impact on their life, culture, and values, leading to the development of a unique weather awareness to adapt to long winters and short summers. Coexistence with nature, sensitivity to light and darkness, and seasonal lifestyles form the core of Finnish social culture.

Culture Facing Extreme Seasons

Experience of Midnight Sun and Polar Night

• In Lapland, located in the Arctic Circle, the summer features the midnight sun when the sun does not set, while winter experiences the polar night when the sun does not rise.
• The Finnish people are accustomed to this rhythm of light and darkness, and methods to maintain a balance of mind and body are rooted in their daily lives.

Mental Care According to Seasons

• To prevent seasonal affective disorder, artificial lighting and vitamin D intake are emphasized.
• Conversely, in summer, a culture has developed to maximize the use of light by being active and engaging in outdoor activities.

Sense of Oneness with Nature and Adaptation to the Weather

The Cycle of "Sauna and Lake"

• The sauna, a symbol of Finnish culture, serves as a means to adapt to the cold climate, functioning in conjunction with cold-water baths as part of nature.
• Regardless of the season, the cyclical experience of "sauna → lake → sauna" is integrated into daily life.

Life with Forests and Snow

• Approximately 70% of Finland's land is covered by forests, with lifestyles adapted to seasonal natural changes (such as berry picking, firewood gathering, and skiing) having developed.
• Even in areas with heavy snowfall, wisdom for snow removal and cold protection is incorporated into daily life, emphasizing the importance of dialogue with nature.

High Trust and Utilization of Weather Information

Spread of Digital Weather Forecasts

• Checking snowfall, freezing, and aurora forecasts on smartphones and apps has become customary, with high trust in accurate weather information.
• Especially regarding transportation and events, weather judgments are crucial, and information sharing is active at the municipal level.

Awareness of Climate Change

• In Finland, there is a strong awareness of reduced ice, snow shortages, and extreme weather due to global warming, and the entire country is working towards sustainability.
• Forest management, energy policies, and building standards are all designed with climate adaptation in mind.

Fusion of Seasonal Events and Weather Culture

Midsummer Festival (Juhannus) and Midnight Sun

• The Midsummer Festival (Juhannus) in June is a celebration of the midnight sun, expressing gratitude to nature with bonfires, saunas, and lakefront cottages.
• It is a time to celebrate the climatic peak of summer and deepen bonds with family and friends.

Christmas and the Fantasy of Snow

• Finland is considered the "hometown of Santa Claus," with snowy landscapes and Christmas culture deeply intertwined.
• In years when it does not snow, nostalgia for a "White Christmas" is often expressed, highlighting how climate influences cultural emotions.

Summary

Finland’s climate consciousness is supported by a "spiritual connection to light, darkness, snow, and nature" that goes beyond mere temperature differences, with a depth and delicateness not seen in other countries. Wisdom and culture for living in harmony with the environment continue to thrive in modern times.