Oymyakon, a rural locality in the Oymyakonsky District of the Sakha Republic, Russia, holds the distinction of being the coldest permanently inhabited human settlement on Earth. Located in the Yana-Oymyakon Highlands, along the Indigirka River, it is approximately 30 km northwest of Tomtor on the Kolyma Highway.
Historical Background
Oymyakon's name reportedly comes from the Even word 'kheium,' meaning "unfrozen patch of water; place where fish spend the winter". However, another source suggests that the Even word 'heyum' (hэjум, хэюм; 'kheium' may be a misspelling), which means "frozen lake," could be the origin of its name.
Climate and Geography
Oymyakon is known for its extreme subarctic climate, with an average winter temperature of around -50°C (-58°F). The ground is permanently frozen, known as continuous permafrost. The city is located in a valley, which traps wind and creates a colder climate. Despite the harsh conditions, the city has a population of between 500 and 900 residents.
Everyday Life in Oymyakon
Life in Oymyakon is shaped by the extreme cold. The local economy is primarily based on fur trading and ice fishing. Schools only consider closing if the temperature drops below -55°C (-67°F). There is one store in Oymyakon, along with a post office, a bank, a gas station, and a small airport.
Every structure in Oymyakon is built on underground stilts to counter the instability of the permafrost that runs 13 feet deep. A nearby thermal spring remains just unfrozen enough for farmers to bring their livestock to drink.
The local diet helps residents stay warm in the cold. Reindeer meat and fish are staples, and sometimes chunks of frozen horse blood also find their way into meals Residents also drink Russki Chai, which literally translates to "Russian Tea." This is their term for vodka, which they believe helps them keep warm in the cold, along with multiple layers of clothing.
Oymyakon, with its extreme temperatures and unique lifestyle, offers a fascinating glimpse into human resilience and adaptability. Despite the harsh conditions, the inhabitants of this remote settlement have found ways to thrive, making Oymyakon a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
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