The strong and warm North Atlantic current reaches all the way to Svalbard creating a surprisingly favourable climate along the west coast and the less oceanic interior parts of Spitsbergen, the latitude taken into account. The flora of Svalbard is surprisingly diverse, albeit in small areas. See the photo just above to appreciate what this looks like! However, nearly impossible is not the same as impossible. Much of the islands are covered with rock and ice, making it nearly impossible for vegetation to grow. Less than 10% of the landmass has any vegetation. Earlier this year, Svalbard recorded its 100th consecutive month of above average temperatures.Ħ. However, average temperatures on Svalbard have increased rapidly over the last few years and the climate is becoming wetter as a result. The area receives minimal precipitation, and the air is almost as dry as it would be in a ‘hot' desert. Because of its rock and ice, cold temperatures and low humidity, Svalbard falls into the northern part of our planet known as ‘Arctic desert'. The mountains, glaciers and islands of Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park on Spitsbergen are home to historical monuments including former whaling stations and burial grounds.ĥ. The seven national parks are: Forlandet, Indre Wijdefjorden, Nordenskiöld Land, Nordre Isfjorden, Nordvest-Spitsbergen, Sassen-Bünsow Land, and Sør-Spitsbergen. Sixty percent of Svalbard's land is protected. They are scattered all over Norway, with 85 percent of them being mountainous. Norway's national parks are created to ensure the preservation of nature for future generations. Seven of Norway's 47 national parks are on Svalbard. However, bears do sometimes approach buildings due to desperate hunger.Ĥ. The bears tend to stay clear of the settlements. ![]() However, this population calls a wide area its home, only part of which is Svalbard. Numbers have actually increased of late and are said to number around 3,000. Nearly everyone lives in the capital, Longyearbyen.īut the real natives of these islands are the polar bears. The population changes seasonally but there tends to be around 2,500 people living in Svalbard. Several of the shops, restaurants and other public buildings have ‘no firearms permitted' signs on the main doors.ģ. It is prohibited to use a weapon within the settlements though. This means carrying a firearm is mandatory, and items like flare guns are also highly recommended. ![]() In a 2012 law the Governor of Svalbard requires anyone travelling outside the settlements to have the means to scare off a polar bear. You must carry a gun outside the settlements. Flights to Longyearbyen airport leave from the non-Schengen zone of Oslo Airport, and everyone is required to show their passport regardless of nationality.Ģ. That's because while Norway is part of the European Schengen area, the archipelago is not. Even Norwegians need to show their passport when travelling to Svalbard. ![]() I've pulled together this list of fascinating facts about Svalbard to help you understand more about this remarkable place. Whether it's exploring the Russian settlements or taking in the spectacular scenery of the Arctic desert (fact number 6!), there's plenty on offer here. The remote Norwegian islands are a tourist draw for adventurers, wildlife lovers and the curious. Top of so many people's bucket lists, Svalbard is the home of the world's northernmost… well, pretty much anything.Īmong many other things, the world's northernmost full service hotel, liquor store, supermarket, cinema, library, and kebab van can all be found here. ![]() Located on a latitude of between 74° to 82° north, Svalbard is the very definition of remote. Impress your friends and family with these incredible facts about the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.
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