Yöhämärä

Yöhämärä is a Finnish term that translates to "night twilight" or "dusk." It specifically refers to the period of light that persists after the sun has set below the horizon during the summer months in northern latitudes. This phenomenon is a result of the sun's rays scattering in the upper atmosphere, even when the sun itself is not directly visible. In regions above the Arctic Circle, yöhämärä can last for extended periods, sometimes blending into the dawn twilight without a true period of darkness. The intensity of yöhämärä varies depending on the time of year and proximity to the equator. During the summer solstice in Finland, the sky may remain dimly lit throughout the night, creating a unique atmospheric condition. This prolonged twilight has cultural significance, influencing folklore, art, and daily life in the Nordic countries. It is a period often associated with calm and reflection, distinct from the deep darkness of winter nights.