Alaska town Utqiaġvik to witness next Sunrise in January. Check date

Utqiaġvik, Alaska, a town situated north of the Arctic Circle, is entering a period of polar night, enduring 66 days of continuous darkness from November to January. This natural occurrence, known as polar night, contrasts with the phenomenon experienced during the summer months. The Sun is scheduled to set for the last time this year on Saturday in Utqiaġvik, marking the commencement of an extended period of darkness that will persist until late January, characteristic of the Arctic Circle's polar nights.

Less than a decade ago, Utqiaġvik, previously named Barrow, reclaimed its traditional Alaska Native name. Despite the prolonged period of darkness, the town will not experience complete obscurity as civil twilight emerges, lasting for several hours during the customary daytime. As defined by the National Weather Service, civil twilight initiates when the Sun's center is positioned within 6 degrees below the horizon.

The next occurrence of sunrise over Utqiaġvik is anticipated on January 23, 2024. Scheduled for approximately 1:09 pm (local time), the sun will be observable for about an hour. Over the course of spring, the duration of daylight will gradually increase, leading to the phenomenon of the "midnight sun" during the summer.


In contrast to the winter months, where Utqiaġvik experiences extended periods of darkness, the summer brings about 24 hours of continuous sunlight. Residents in the region acknowledge that the winter darkness can have adverse effects on the local population. To counteract this, common treatments include vitamin D supplements and the use of light-therapy lamps until natural daylight is restored.

FAQs

Q1. What is the name of Alaska town?
A1. The name of Alaska town is Utqiaġvik.

Q2. What was the old name of Utqiaġvik?
A2. Less than a decade ago, Utqiaġvik, previously named Barrow, reclaimed its traditional Alaska Native name.