On December 22 the entrance of the Winter Solstice, a season characterized by a notable drop in temperatures and a reduction in daylight hours. During this period, the days are considerably longer short compared to the summer months, and this has a significant impact on the natural environment and our daily activities.
Next, we will explore Some curiosities about this magical and familiar season that we have received, enriching the original content with additional and fascinating information.
1. Beginning and duration of the winter solstice
- El Winter Solstice started the December 22 at 5:48 a.m. This station will extend by 88 days and the 20 March, the moment when we will welcome spring.
- The solstice event can occur in four different dates, from the 20 to December 23, depending on the year.
2. The shortest day of the year
- The day of Winter Solstice It is the shortest of the year. This is due to the tilt of the Earth's axis, which causes the Sun rises later and sets sooner. In Madrid, for example, this day lasts approximately 9 17 hours and minutes, in contrast to the 15 3 hours and minutes of the longest day of the year, which occurs around June 21.
- This phenomenon is due to the fact that at this time, the North Pole It is at its farthest position from the Sun, while in the southern hemisphere the seasons are reversed, with winter occurring in June. If you want to know more about the seasons, you can read about Why the seasons occur.
3. Astronomical phenomena
- This winter, there will be a solar eclipse scheduled for 8 March 2024. However, viewers in Spain will not be able to see it, as it will be visible only in regions of Asia, Alaska and Australia.
- Another event to highlight is the meteor shower of the Quadrantids, which will have its maximum on January 3, offering an impressive spectacle for astronomy lovers.
4. Climate and temperatures
- Throughout the winter months, the average temperature in Spain tends to be approximately 8 degrees centigrade, and rainfall usually averages 186 mmThis makes winter the rainiest season in several autonomous communities, including Andalusia, Extremadura and Galicia.
- Variability in climate and temperatures can be significant, with some winters being warmer and others colder, a phenomenon that has been observed in recent years. For more details on climate variations, see the article on last winter was warmer.
5. The influence of the winter solstice on cultures
The winter solstice has been surrounded by myths and traditions in diverse cultures throughout history, reflecting societies' connection to natural cycles. Many ancient civilizations celebrated the solstice as a rebirth of the sun and a symbol of light and hope.
- In Ancient Rome, the festivities were known as Saturnalia, dedicated to the god Saturn, where banquets were held and gifts were exchanged.
- Nordic cultures also celebrated the winter solstice, dedicating rituals to gods such as Beiwe, the goddess of the sun, in an attempt to ensure the arrival of light and fertility on earth.
- In Japanese folklore, the goddess of the sun Amaterasu It has a myth that involves darkness and rebirth, reflecting the search for light in the midst of darkness.
6. Astronomical observations
The winter sky is a spectacle of stars and planets. Some celestial bodies to look out for include:
- At dawn, Mars will be visible, although somewhat faint, and will join (Venus in mid-January
- At night, we will be able to observe planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mercury, which will gradually disappear from the sky as we approach mid-winter. If you are interested in astronomical observation, you can read about the dance of the Moon and Jupiter.
7. Changes in the natural environment
During winter, nature also shows significant changes:
- Animals can enter a state of hibernation, while the migratory birds move towards warmer climates.
- Plants decrease their activity, carrying out processes that allow them to survive in harsher conditions until the return of spring.
El Winter Solstice It's a time of transformation and renewal, celebrating both the rhythms of nature and cultural traditions that reflect the importance of light in our lives. As the days begin to lengthen, we all look forward to the return of spring and the rebirth of life.
