This second of the Haby Hints in the secluded meteorology series looks at dealing with weather in the polar regions. This could be on the ice cap of the North Pole region or on Antarctica in the South Pole region. An interesting climatic feature is the season. There are two seasons which are the extremely cold with 24-hour darkness season and the cool but with 24-hour sunlight season. To be stuck in the polar region requires good shelter, a supply of food and survival supplies. Except for Santa and family and special observation/research stations, very few people keep a permanent homestead in this region. Surviving a hike to the Pole requires significant survival gear. Survival clothing, a supply of food/water and endurance will be needed. There is very little to no food in this harsh environment. There is plenty of water but it is in the form of frigid ice. Sled dogs can be used to make the trip faster. The trip would need to be done in summer when there is sunlight and it is warmer. It is important to be able to see where you are going due to cracks and irregularities in ice. This type of trip is dangerous due to the seclusion. These trips are best done in small groups because it is very difficult to get outside help if something goes wrong. The winds in the polar region can be very strong. There is little friction on the ice thus there is not much to slow the wind. This can produce dangerously low wind chills. Since the air is cold, not much moisture will be in the air even when the relative humidity is high. This can contribute to very dry skin. The adventurers in this harsh environment tend to be hardy explorers and researchers at research stations. It is a difficult climate to live long term. |