Current Weather in Ås

The cultural and meteorological awareness of climate in Norway has been shaped by a historical background of coexisting with a harsh natural environment and a lifestyle that takes advantage of the unique Nordic light and darkness, as well as temperature differences.

Coexisting with Nature and Respect

Adaptability to Harsh Climate

• Norway experiences extreme seasonality such as winter cold and long nights, summer midnight sun, which the residents accept and coexist with.
• There is a lifestyle adapted to nature, featuring means of transportation during harsh winters (skiing and snowshoes) and highly insulated homes.

The Spirit of Friluftsliv

• The concept of Friluftsliv, meaning "time spent outdoors in nature," has permeated the climate culture across all age groups.
• There is a habit of enjoying hiking, skiing, and fishing regardless of the weather, with the mindset that "there is no bad weather, only bad clothing" becoming widespread.

The Connection between Sunlight and Mental Health

Sensitivity to Light and Darkness

• In the northern regions, polar nights where the sun does not rise in winter and midnight sun in summer are observed, leading to a very high value placed on light.
• People take measures against light deficiency through artificial lighting, vitamin D supplementation, and light therapy.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

• Knowledge about winter depression is shared throughout society, and there is a high awareness of mental and physical care in workplaces and schools.
• A culture that emphasizes inner comfort has developed, utilizing concepts like hygge (cozy spaces) and candles.

The Link between Weather and Socioeconomic Activities

The Close Relationship between Fishing and Weather

• In coastal areas, weather, wind direction, and wave information are lifelines for fishing.
• With advancements in weather forecasting technology, operational decisions based on meteorological information are made more sophisticated.

Trust and Practicality of Weather Forecasting

• Detailed and highly accurate weather forecasts, such as those from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute (Yr.no), have become integrated into daily life.
• Weather information is utilized for daily activities, leisure planning, and commuting or school attendance, making the relationship with weather an integral part of life.

Children and Climate Education

Education Policy Emphasizing Natural Experiences

• In kindergartens and schools, there is a strong educational culture that encourages outdoor play regardless of rain or snow, considering contact with nature as part of personality development.
• Staying indoors due to weather is rare, and outdoor education (Utebarnehage) is common.

Fostering Weather Literacy

• Classes and practical experiences are conducted to cultivate children's interest in weather observation and seasonal changes, keeping them close to nature.
• Awareness of climate change is also high, with active environmental movements among younger generations.

Contemporary Challenges and Awareness of Sustainability

Vigilance against Climate Change and Natural Disasters

• It is a region significantly impacted by the Arctic, experiencing glacier melting, heavy rainfall, and strong wind damage.
• As a nation, it is also proactive in climate change response, promoting decarbonization policies and the introduction of renewable energy.

Integration of Eco-Life and Weather Awareness

• Even in choices related to heating, lighting, and transportation, environmental considerations are a common decision-making criterion.
• The culture of "weather x sustainability" has taken root, including energy-saving actions utilizing meteorological data and the promotion of green tourism.

Summary

Norway's climate culture is shaped by a deep understanding of the harsh nature and extreme changes in light, which has led to the development of a philosophy of coexistence with nature, life knowledge, and practices for sustainability. The rich weather culture typical of the Nordic region offers numerous insights into modern relationships with the Earth's environment.