In northeast Greenland in April you can experience all manner of Arctic winter conditions and as Iceman Polar participants, you must be suitably experienced and equipped to deal with such conditions.
Conditions can vary from perfectly calm days with clear skies and daytime temperatures rising to -5°C to extreme blizzards and whiteout conditions with night time temperatures of (exceptionally) -20°C (not accounting for further wind chill). Average day and night time temperatures are around -10°C to -15°C. Almost 24 hour daylight will be experienced.
Camping will be in full Arctic winter conditions throughout the event and weather in Greenland can change rapidly. Tents should always be pitched and secured in a safe manner as if an extreme storm was expected at any time - you'll be given full training on how to do this.
We have organised the event itinerary so participants have sufficient acclimatisation time in Arctic conditions and temperatures before the event itself.
On arrival in Greenland, you will be shown around base camp, given time to organise your equipment and settle in to camp. Later on, a relaxed introductory briefing over refreshments will give you an overview of the event and route. On the following two days, we will run training and practice (such as winter camping skills, roping up for glacier travel and the use of pulks) and you'll have time for your own preparations of food and equipment.
This acclimatisation time gives teams the chance to spend three nights camping and eating together before the event, to identify any issues with equipment or systems and make adjustments if necessary. It's also an opportunity to socialise with other participants and check out the competition! Because it is an extremely remote environment, this is also a chance to get accustomed to the landscape and the lack of human inhabitants before heading out into the frozen arctic landscapes.
Cold weather can cause hypothermia and frostbite, and all participants need to have appropriate cold weather clothing as described in the Equipment List. Equally, sunny days can cause their own problems of sunburn and snow blindness. SPF 50+ suncream and good quality sunglasses and goggles will protect you from these.
If you wish to check the weather forecast before the event, the yr.no forecast for Constable Pynt is one of the most accurate for this remote part of the world. Please note, however, that forecasts for east and northeast Greenland are based on very limited information, can often be incorrect or misleading and do not take in to account localised conditions which can vary significantly! During the event, we will regularly update participants on the upcoming forecast.
