December is an excellent time to witness the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The long hours of darkness in Arctic regions provide an extended window for sightings.
Why December is Prime for Auroras
The primary reason December offers a good chance to see the Northern Lights is the prolonged period of darkness in higher latitudes. Areas near the Arctic Circle experience very short days, or even polar night where the sun does not rise above the horizon for weeks, maximizing the time the sky is dark enough for auroras to be visible. For instance, in Rovaniemi, the sun may only be above the horizon for a few hours around midday in December. This extended night offers a significantly larger viewing window.
Cold, clear winter nights also contribute to better viewing conditions. When temperatures drop, the air tends to hold less moisture, leading to clearer skies with reduced atmospheric haze. Clear skies are paramount for aurora observation, as cloud cover can easily obscure the lights. While solar activity occurs year-round, the dark and often clear winter months make December a popular choice.
Maximizing Your December Viewing Experience
To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in December, checking aurora forecasts is important. Forecasts often use the Kp-index, a scale from 0 to 9, which indicates geomagnetic activity. A Kp-index of 5 or higher generally suggests stronger auroral displays visible from lower latitudes. However, even lower Kp values can produce fine auroras, especially closer to the poles, and local magnetic disturbances can also play a role. Websites and mobile applications provide real-time updates and short-term forecasts.
Finding locations away from light pollution is also essential. City lights can diminish aurora visibility, making remote areas with dark skies ideal. Patience is another important factor, as the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can appear suddenly and vanish quickly. Dedicating multiple nights to aurora hunting can significantly improve sighting likelihood. Many travelers find it beneficial to join guided tours or hire local guides who know the best viewing spots and can track real-time conditions. While the naked eye can see the lights, a camera with appropriate settings can capture more vibrant displays and even reveal faint auroras.
Practical Considerations for a December Aurora Trip
Traveling to Arctic regions in December requires thorough preparation for extreme cold. Layering clothing is essential, starting with thermal base layers made of merino wool or synthetics to wick away moisture. Mid-layers like fleece provide insulation, and a windproof, waterproof outer shell is necessary to protect against elements. Insulated boots, warm socks, hats, gloves or mittens, and scarves are also crucial for staying comfortable during prolonged outdoor exposure. Many tour operators provide heavy outer gear, but warm base layers are still important.
Transportation in winter conditions presents unique challenges. Roads can be icy, and heavy snowfall or blizzards can temporarily close routes. Renting vehicles equipped with studded tires is advisable, and some remote areas may only be accessible via specialized winter transport like ice roads. Public transportation options might be limited in remote viewing locations, so planning travel logistics in advance is important. Booking accommodations in popular aurora viewing destinations well ahead of time is also recommended, as December is a busy travel period.
Safety should remain a top priority when venturing out in winter. Beyond dressing warmly to prevent frostbite, being aware of walking on ice and informing others of your plans is important. Daytime activities in these regions often include dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing, providing opportunities to enjoy the winter landscape while waiting for nightfall.