Page 41 - Yukon Winter Visitor
P. 41

  Northern lights are best viewed in the country side away from distracting city lights.
WINTER IN THE YUKON
 NORTHERN LIGHTS
Late fall and winter visitors to Yukon are often treated to the mystical sight of the northern lights (aurora borealis), a northern celestial light show that illuminates Yukon nights from August to April. Pulsating streamers of green, yellow, magenta, and blue arch and sway overhead as you take in the show from the comfort of your cozy cabin, viewing deck or steaming hot tub.
The Yukon enjoys some of the most lively and predictable displays of aurora borealis in the circumpolar North. Come and experience Yukon winter activities such as dog sledding or skiing by day and spend your nights watching the enchanting northern lights in the peaceful solitude of a Yukon winter night. Photographers will find themselves transfixed by these celestial shows.
PLANNING AHEAD
• The aurora borealis happens year round but the best months for viewing are late August to April. In the Summer months the sky is too bright to see the northern lights even when there is a lot of solar wind activity.
• The aurora can be seen anytime the sky is dark, but is more predicable when the sky is clear and the time is close to midnight.
• Yukon nights can be very cold and temperatures can reach below -40˚ C, so be sure to dress appropriately.
 AVALANCHE SAFETY
Avalanches can be triggered by wind,
rain, warming temperatures, snow, and earthquakes. They can also be triggered by skiers, snowmobiles, hikers, vibrations from machinery or construction.
• If you are planning to travel in backcountry, take an avalanche safety course.
• When traveling in backcountry, always travel in a group. Ensure you have an experienced group leader. Always stay within view of your group.
• When driving, observe the sign "Avalanche Area-Do Not Stop."
• Drive carefully in avalanche areas. Avalanches may reach the road without warning.
• Obey road closures. When the avalanche hazard is high, control work by explosives may be carried out at any time.
• If an avalanche blocks the highway, remain in your vehicle with seat belts on. Wait for assistance. Drive to a safe area if possible.
• Avoid driving through even small avalanches.
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