The Polar Night Phenomenon

The Polar Night phenomenon is a topic we love to discuss with our guests. This natural wonder adds to the curiosity, mystery and allure that has intrigued people for ages and continues to drive many to visit our wonderful state. 

Many believe that once winter arrives, the entire state of Alaska delves into darkness.  Those of us that live here know that complete 24 hours of darkness really only occurs in Alaska’s northernmost cities. For example, Utqiagvik, Alaska, the United States northernmost city, situated more than three hundred miles north of the Arctic Circle, experiences complete darkness for two months out of the year. Their most recent polar night began Nov. 18, 2023, and they did not see the light of the sun for 67 days. The first sunrise just finally occurred January 23, 2024. 

During the winter in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley (Mat-Su Valley) of Alaska, the amount of sunshine is relatively low compared to other seasons. The region experiences long periods of darkness and shorter daylight hours. The specific amount of sunshine can vary depending on the exact location within the valley and the weather conditions each year. On average, the Mat-Su Valley receives around 3 to 5 hours of daylight during the winter months. The winter solstice, which usually occurs on December 21st or 22nd, marks the shortest day of the year and the point at which daylight hours begin to increase again.

Conversely, during the summer months, the region experiences a phenomenon called "midnight sun," where the sun remains above the horizon for 24 hours, resulting in continuous daylight.

The amount of sunshine gradually increases each day until the summer solstice on June 20 which is the longest day of the year. It's always a good idea to check local weather forecasts and sunrise/sunset times for the most accurate information regarding daylight hours in the Mat-Su Valley especially during the winter season.