Thanks to inversion, a bitterly cold winter day can feel surprisingly mild at the top of the fell compared to the valley below. So, don’t let the freezing temperatures on your cabin’s thermometer scare you off — check the summit’s temperature as well! You might be in for a pleasant surprise, as a crisp winter day could turn out to be a fantastic one for skiing. You can easily check the temperature difference between the valley and the summit on the Ruka.fi frontpage.
Warming up at the summit on a freezing day – thanks to inversion!
Do you know what a winter inversion is?
What is inversion?
Normally, the temperature in the atmosphere drops by 6–10 degrees Celsius per kilometer as you go higher. However, under cold, clear, and calm winter conditions, the opposite can happen — temperatures actually increase with altitude. This phenomenon is called inversion, and it can create dramatic differences of tens of degrees between the valley and the summit.
Inversion acts like an invisible glass ceiling, trapping cold air in the valley. If the weather stays clear and windless, the inversion can linger for several days. However, as soon as the wind picks up or clouds roll in, the inversion breaks down.
Experience the inversion at Ruka
During the winter months, inversion is a common occurrence in Ruka. If you’re curious, take a trip to the top to witness it for yourself! Even if you’re not planning to ski or snowboard, you can still reach the summit by purchasing a pedestrian ticket for the gondola in order to reach the top of Saarua or to the Village Express chairlift in order to reach the top of Ruka.
It’s a unique experience to ride the lift up and feel the air getting noticeably milder at the top compared to the base. Inversion days also create breathtaking views, since the cold mist often settles over the valleys, and when touched by sunlight, it shimmers in golden hues.
Dress warmly!
While it may feel pleasantly mild at the summit, you’ll definitely notice the temperature drop as you ski back down. That’s why dressing warmly is key! Exposed areas like your face are especially vulnerable, so merino wool scarves and goggles will make skiing much more comfortable.
Layering is essential for staying warm. Make sure your layers are loose enough to trap warm air. Tight clothing can actually make you feel colder. And don’t forget to keep moving and take regular warming breaks at the rest stop huts in the ski resort and slope-side restaurants and cafés.
Check also:
Open slopes and lifts at Ruka Ski Resort
Ruka online store – Buy tickets and rent equipment in advance