Current Weather in Sweden

Cultural and meteorological awareness of climate in Sweden is rooted in a lifestyle and seasonal events that emphasize coexistence with nature, set against a backdrop of long winters and short summers. People are sensitive to sunlight and exhibit high levels of acceptance and adaptability to weather changes.

Connection between daylight hours and people's emotions

Extreme changes in sunlight

• In Sweden, midnight sun and polar night can be observed in the north, resulting in significant differences in sunlight hours.
• In winter, sunlight lasts only for a few hours, leading to the widespread use of light therapy and vitamin D intake to prevent mood disorders and depression.

Culture of enjoying the sun

• The arrival of summer is highly celebrated, and a culture of maximizing sunny days is deeply ingrained.
• Time spent in parks, lakes, and terraces increases, with a strong awareness that "being in the sun itself is leisure."

Festival culture closely tied to the seasons

Midsummer

• Midsummer, the celebration of the summer solstice in June, is one of Sweden's largest traditional events.
• Events featuring flower crowns, dancing around the maypole, and herring with new potatoes symbolize reconnection with nature.

Lucia Festival

• The Lucia Festival, held in December, is a symbolic festival that brings light to the dark winter.
• A procession dressed in white with candles embodies the yearning for spiritual "light."

Architecture and lifestyle adapted to the climate

Winter living and environment

• Buildings are well-insulated, featuring underfloor heating and double-glazed windows, ensuring thorough preparation for the cold.
• There is high interest in interiors and lighting to ensure comfort indoors (related to the hygge culture).

Summer and affinity with nature

• It is common to stay long-term at summer houses during the warm season.
• There is a tradition of enjoying nature as an extension of life, with good access to forests and lakes.

Relationship between weather and public life/work style

Flexible working methods and climate adaptation

• In anticipation of snowstorms and dark winters, remote work and staggered hours have become widespread.
• Flexibility in working arrangements according to weather is embedded in social systems, especially supporting families with children.

Culture of sharing weather information

• Data from meteorological agencies and smartphone apps are used daily as deciding factors for transportation and commuting based on weather.
• During winter, measures against snowfall and road icing are intricately organized at the municipal level.

Contemporary climate issues and environmental consciousness

Vigilance and action against global warming

• The impacts of climate change have become evident across Northern Europe, raising concerns about snow shortages and glacial retreat.
• Among young people, environmental protection movements (e.g., Greta Thunberg) are becoming active.

Renewable energy and sustainability

• There is a high proportion of renewable energy such as solar and wind, with active initiatives led by local governments.
• Education and lifestyle changes linking weather and energy are ongoing.

Summary

Sweden's climate culture is supported by wisdom and sensitivity to fully enjoy the value of the seasons while adapting to a harsh natural environment. Weather is not merely a natural phenomenon but is deeply interconnected with life, culture, social systems, and values.