höstvinter

Höstvinter is a colloquial Swedish term describing the transitional period between autumn and winter. It is not a fixed meteorological season, but a descriptive label used in weather reporting, journalism, and everyday language to refer to the time when autumn conditions linger while winter weather begins to emerge. The term combines the words höst (autumn) and vinter (winter). It is commonly used in Sweden and other Nordic countries, though the precise timing varies by year and region.

During höstvinter, temperatures typically decline, daylight shortens significantly, and precipitation increases. Conditions may alternate between cool, damp autumn days and colder spells with frost, freezing of surfaces, or early snowfall. In southern parts, rain and slush dominate; in northern areas, snow and icy ground can appear earlier. Weather can be highly episodic, with warm spells followed by cold snaps.

The period has practical implications for agriculture, transportation, and daily life. Preparations for winter storage, clothing, and driving conditions become more urgent as frost appears and roads icy. Culturally, höstvinter features in literature, photography, and seasonal traditions that emphasize the approach of winter. With climate change, the length and character of höstvinter may shift, with more variability in temperature and precipitation patterns.