What is Coral Harbour, and where is it located?

Coral Harbour is a small Inuit community designated as a hamlet, situated on Southampton Island within the Kivalliq Region of the Canadian territory of Nunavut. It is the only community in Nunavut that does not observe daylight saving time, remaining on Eastern Standard Time year-round.

What is the Inuktitut name for Coral Harbour, and what does it mean?

The Inuktitut name for Coral Harbour is Salliq, which is sometimes used to refer to all of Southampton Island. The plural form, Salliit, translates to "large flat island(s) in front of the mainland." This name reflects the geographical characteristics of the area.

What is the origin of the English name "Coral Harbour"?

The English name "Coral Harbour" is derived from the fossilized coral that can be found in the waters surrounding the community. The settlement itself is situated at the head of South Bay.

Who were the original inhabitants of the Coral Harbour area, and what is their historical significance?

The original inhabitants of the Coral Harbour area were the Sadlermiut, whose name is derived from the Inuktitut word "Salliq." They are believed to be the last remnants of the Dorset culture, also known as the Tuniit, a pre-Inuit culture that became ethnically and culturally extinct around 1902-1903 due to an illness.

What are the different theories regarding the ancestry of the Sadlermiut people?

There are differing theories about the Sadlermiut's ancestry. Some believe they were descendants of the Thule people, whose culture developed distinctively due to geographic isolation. A third perspective suggests that the Sadlermiut may have roots in both the Dorset and Thule cultures due to intermarriage.

How was the Coral Harbour area repopulated in the early 20th century?

In the early 20th century, the area was repopulated by the Aivilingmiut people, who came from the Naujaat and Chesterfield Inlet areas. Their relocation was influenced by whaler Captain George Comer and others. Baffin Islanders arrived approximately 25 years later.

Who was Captain George Comer, and what was his role in the history of Coral Harbour?

Captain George Comer was a whaler who influenced the repopulation of the Coral Harbour area in the early 20th century. John Ell, a notable figure in the re-settled population, traveled with Comer on his schooners as a child.

What was the population of Coral Harbour according to the 2021 Canadian census?

According to the 2021 Canadian census conducted by Statistics Canada, Coral Harbour had a population of 1,035 residents. This represented a significant increase of 16.2% from its 2016 population of 891.

What is the population density of Coral Harbour?

In 2021, Coral Harbour had a population density of 8.2 people per square kilometer (21.2 people per square mile). This density is calculated based on its land area of 126.39 square kilometers (48.80 square miles).

What are the primary modes of transportation used to reach Coral Harbour?

Coral Harbour is primarily accessible by aircraft, landing at Coral Harbour Airport. Additionally, resupply barges arrive during the summer months, traveling from Churchill, Manitoba, and from the East Coast and St. Lawrence area, though these barges do not carry passengers.

How do residents typically travel within Coral Harbour and on Southampton Island?

Transportation within Coral Harbour and across Southampton Island, which is comparable in size to Switzerland, relies on different methods depending on the season. During winter, snowmobiles and dog sleds are commonly used, while all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are the primary mode of transport in the summer.

What types of wildlife are found in the vicinity of Coral Harbour?

Despite the harsh climate, the area around Coral Harbour is rich in wildlife. Commonly found species include walruses, polar bears, barren-ground caribou, ringed seals, gyrfalcons, and occasionally peregrine falcons.

What broadband communication services are available in Coral Harbour?

Since 2005, Coral Harbour has been served by the Qiniq network, which provides broadband internet access through a fixed wireless service. This network connects homes and businesses via a satellite backbone and was upgraded to 4G LTE technology in 2017, also offering 2G-GSM for mobile voice services. SSI Micro operates the Qiniq network.

Who is James Arvaluk, and what were his notable political contributions?

James Arvaluk is recognized as Nunavut's first Minister of Education. He also served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut, representing the district of Tununiq, and previously represented Nanulik, which included the hamlets of Chesterfield Inlet and Coral Harbour. Before the Northwest Territories division in 1999, he was a member of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories for the Aivilik electoral district.

What significant role did Tagak Curley play in Inuit advocacy?

Tagak Curley was the founder and the first president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (formerly Inuit Tapirisat of Canada), a prominent organization representing Inuit interests. He has also served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut for Rankin Inlet North and was a federal Liberal candidate in the 1979 election.

Who is Manitok Thompson, and what is her distinction in Nunavut politics?

Manitok Thompson is a former member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut, representing Rankin Inlet South/Whale Cove. Prior to Nunavut's creation, she served in the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories for Aivilik. Notably, she holds the distinction of being Nunavut's first female cabinet minister.

What is the Köppen climate classification for Coral Harbour?

Coral Harbour experiences a severe subarctic climate, classified under the Köppen climate classification as Dfc. This classification is based on its average July temperatures, which are just warm enough to meet the criteria for this climate type, leading to barren vegetation.

How does the climate of Coral Harbour relate to polar conditions?

Coral Harbour's climate is considered borderline polar. While it technically falls under a subarctic classification (Dfc), its proximity to polar conditions results in a short growing season and sparse vegetation, characteristic of tundra environments.

What is the phenomenon of seasonal lag in Coral Harbour, and what causes it?

Coral Harbour experiences a significant seasonal lag, meaning the temperature changes lag behind the solar cycle. This is primarily caused by the freezing and thawing of Hudson Bay; the bay remains frozen for much of the year, delaying the warming effect of summer until June, even with long daylight hours.

Describe the unusual weather conditions experienced in Coral Harbour during December 2010 and early January 2011.

During December 2010 and early January 2011, Coral Harbour experienced unusually warm weather, setting new high-temperature records. A mid-December high of 3.3 °C (37.9 °F) surpassed the previous record, and the daily minimum temperature on January 6, 2011, was approximately 30 °C (54 °F) warmer than normal for that date.

What atmospheric factors contributed to the record warmth in Coral Harbour in late 2010/early 2011?

The exceptional warmth in Coral Harbour during that period was attributed to a combination of factors, including an unseasonal area of high pressure situated over Greenland. Additionally, highly negative values for the Arctic oscillation and North Atlantic oscillation, along with an Arctic dipole anomaly, directed warmer air towards the Arctic regions.

What is the average daily maximum temperature in Coral Harbour during January?

The average daily maximum temperature in Coral Harbour during January is -24.9 degrees Celsius (-12.8 degrees Fahrenheit). This reflects the extreme cold experienced during the winter months.

What is the average daily minimum temperature in Coral Harbour during January?

The average daily minimum temperature in Coral Harbour during January is -29.0 degrees Celsius (-20.2 degrees Fahrenheit). This indicates the severity of the cold, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly.

What is the highest temperature ever recorded in Coral Harbour?

The record high temperature ever recorded in Coral Harbour is 28.0 degrees Celsius (82.4 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature was reached in July.

What is the lowest temperature ever recorded in Coral Harbour?

The record low temperature ever recorded in Coral Harbour is -52.8 degrees Celsius (-63.0 degrees Fahrenheit). This extreme cold was recorded in January.

What is the average precipitation Coral Harbour receives in July?

Coral Harbour receives an average of 34.8 millimeters (1.37 inches) of precipitation in July. This month typically sees the highest average precipitation of the year.

What is the average snowfall in Coral Harbour during November?

Coral Harbour typically receives an average of 28.1 centimeters (11.1 inches) of snowfall in November. This indicates significant snowfall accumulation during the late autumn months.

What is the average relative humidity in Coral Harbour at 1500 LST?

The average relative humidity in Coral Harbour at 1500 Local Standard Time varies throughout the year. For example, in October, it averages around 85.5%, indicating generally moist air conditions, especially during the colder months.

How many hours of sunshine does Coral Harbour typically receive in July?

Coral Harbour typically receives approximately 312.3 hours of sunshine in July. This month generally experiences the highest number of sunshine hours annually.

What percentage of possible sunshine does Coral Harbour receive in January?

In January, Coral Harbour receives about 22.4% of possible sunshine. This low percentage reflects the limited daylight hours and often overcast conditions during the peak of winter.

What is the general quality of the limestone resources found around Coral Harbour?

The limestone found around Coral Harbour and in nearby regions like Bad Cache Rapids is predominantly characterized as having "Low Purity." This assessment affects its suitability for certain industrial applications.

What is the Canadian postal code for Coral Harbour?

The Canadian postal code for Coral Harbour is X0C 0C0. This code format is specific to the region and indicates its location within Canada's postal system.

What is the telephone area code for Coral Harbour?

The telephone area code for Coral Harbour is 867. This area code serves all of Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, and the Yukon territory in Canada.

What is the official website for the community of Coral Harbour?

The official website for the community of Coral Harbour is www.coralharbour.ca. This site provides information about the hamlet and its services.

What is the Inuktitut name for the Sadlermiut people?

The Inuktitut name for the Sadlermiut people is Tuniit. This term refers to the Dorset culture, which is believed to be the ancestral group of the Sadlermiut.

What is the significance of the Aivilik electoral district?

The Aivilik electoral district's name is derived from the Aivilingmiut people, who repopulated the Coral Harbour area in the early 20th century. The district encompasses this region and others within Nunavut.

What is the approximate land area of Southampton Island, where Coral Harbour is located?

Southampton Island, where Coral Harbour is situated, has a land area that is nearly the same size as Switzerland. This makes it a substantial landmass within the Canadian Arctic.

What is the elevation of Coral Harbour?

Coral Harbour is located at an elevation of 64 meters (210 feet) above sea level. This elevation is measured at the airport, which serves as a key point for the community.

What is the Köppen climate classification for Coral Harbour, and what does it imply?

Coral Harbour has a Köppen climate classification of Dfc, indicating a severe subarctic climate. This classification suggests long, very cold winters and short, cool summers, with vegetation typically limited to tundra-like growth.

What is the average daily mean temperature in Coral Harbour during February?

The average daily mean temperature in Coral Harbour during February is -29.7 degrees Celsius (-21.5 degrees Fahrenheit). This is one of the coldest months, highlighting the extreme winter conditions.

What is the average daily mean temperature in Coral Harbour during August?

The average daily mean temperature in Coral Harbour during August is 8.2 degrees Celsius (46.8 degrees Fahrenheit). This is one of the warmer months, though still relatively cool.

What is the average annual sunshine duration for Coral Harbour?

Coral Harbour receives an average of 1,859.7 hours of sunshine per year. The amount of sunshine varies significantly throughout the year, with July being the sunniest month.

What is the average percentage of possible sunshine Coral Harbour receives annually?

Coral Harbour receives an average of 36.8% of possible sunshine throughout the year. This percentage is lowest in winter months like January (22.4%) and highest in summer months like July (51.2%).

What is the primary source for the climate data presented for Coral Harbour?

The primary source for the climate data presented for Coral Harbour is Environment and Climate Change Canada. The data includes normals from 1991-2020 and extremes recorded from 1933 to the present.

What is the significance of the "Salliq" name in relation to Southampton Island?

The Inuktitut name "Salliq" for Coral Harbour is sometimes used to refer to the entirety of Southampton Island. This usage suggests a strong connection between the community's name and the island itself.

What historical event led to the extinction of the Sadlermiut people?

The Sadlermiut people, the original inhabitants of the Coral Harbour area, became ethnically and culturally extinct between 1902 and 1903. This extinction was caused by an illness that rapidly spread through the community, killing all its members within weeks.

How is Coral Harbour's location described in terms of its geographical features?

Coral Harbour is situated at the head of South Bay on Southampton Island. The community's name is linked to the fossilized coral found in the surrounding waters.

What is the average daily maximum temperature in Coral Harbour during July?

The average daily maximum temperature in Coral Harbour during July is 14.8 degrees Celsius (58.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This is typically the warmest month of the year in the region.

What is the average daily minimum temperature in Coral Harbour during July?

The average daily minimum temperature in Coral Harbour during July is 5.6 degrees Celsius (42.1 degrees Fahrenheit). Even during the summer, nighttime temperatures can remain cool.

What is the average annual precipitation in Coral Harbour?

While the table provides monthly precipitation data, the total annual precipitation is not explicitly summed. However, the data indicates that precipitation is spread throughout the year, with higher amounts typically occurring in the summer months like July and August.

What is the average number of days with precipitation (≥ 0.2 mm) in Coral Harbour during the summer months (June, July, August)?

During the summer months, Coral Harbour experiences an average of 10.2 days with precipitation in June, 9.8 days in July, and 13.0 days in August. This indicates a relatively wet summer season compared to other times of the year.

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Overview

Location & Names

Coral Harbour, known in Inuktitut as Salliq / Salliit, is an Inuit community situated on Southampton Island within the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada. The name "Coral Harbour" originates from the fossilized coral found in the surrounding waters. The Inuktitut name Salliq is sometimes used to refer to the entirety of Southampton Island, meaning "large flat island(s) in front of the mainland."

Hamlet Status

Coral Harbour is officially designated as a Hamlet. It is governed by a mayor and council, with current records indicating Willie Nakoolak as Mayor and Solomon Malliki as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Aivilik electoral district.

Coordinates & Elevation

The community's geographical coordinates are approximately 64°08′N 083°10′W. It is situated at an elevation of 64 meters (210 feet) above sea level, placing it within a unique Arctic environment.

Historical Context

Indigenous Roots

The area was historically inhabited by the Sadlermiut, believed to be the last remnants of the Dorset culture (Tuniit). This distinct pre-Inuit culture is thought to have become extinct between 1902-1903 due to illness. Theories suggest the Sadlermiut may have been descendants of the Thule people or a blend of both Dorset and Thule influences due to their geographic isolation and intermarriage.

Repopulation & Influence

In the early 20th century, the area was repopulated by the Aivilingmiut people from Naujaat and Chesterfield Inlet, influenced by whaler Captain George Comer. Baffin Islanders arrived approximately 25 years later. John Ell, who traveled with Comer, became a notable figure among the resettled population.

Demographics

Population Trends

According to the 2021 Canadian Census, Coral Harbour had a population of 1,035 residents, an increase of 16.2% from the 2016 census. The community maintains a population density of approximately 8.2 people per square kilometer across its land area of 126.39 km².

Federal census population history of Coral Harbour
Year	Pop.	±%
1971	358	—
1976	414	+15.6%
1981	429	+3.6%
1986	477	+11.2%
1991	578	+21.2%
1996	669	+15.7%
2001	712	+6.4%
2006	769	+8.0%
2011	834	+8.5%
2016	891	+6.8%
2021	1,035	+16.2%
Source: Statistics Canada

Time Zone

Coral Harbour uniquely observes Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round, without adopting daylight saving time. This maintains a consistent time reference throughout the year, irrespective of seasonal changes.

Transportation & Wildlife

Access & Local Travel

Access to Coral Harbour is primarily via aircraft at Coral Harbour Airport. During the summer months, resupply barges arrive from Churchill, Manitoba, and the East Coast, though they do not carry passengers. On Southampton Island, which is comparable in size to Switzerland, local transportation relies on snowmobiles and dog sleds in winter, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) during the summer.

Abundant Wildlife

Despite the challenging climate, the island surrounding Coral Harbour is rich in wildlife. Common species include walruses, polar bears, barren-ground caribou, ringed seals, and gyrfalcons. Peregrine falcons are also present, though less frequently observed.

Climate Data

Subarctic Conditions

Coral Harbour experiences a severe subarctic climate (Köppen Dfc), bordering on a polar climate, which results in sparse vegetation. Temperatures remain below freezing for much of the year, with significant seasonal lag due to the frozen Hudson Bay. Winters are harsh, with average high temperatures well below freezing, while summers are brief and cool, with only July and August typically recording temperatures above 24°C.

Climate data for Coral Harbour (Coral Harbour Airport)
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	0.6 (33.1)	−1.1 (30.0)	0.0 (32.0)	5.0 (41.0)	9.4 (48.9)	23.5 (74.3)	28.0 (82.4)	26.1 (79.0)	18.5 (65.3)	7.6 (45.7)	4.0 (39.2)	3.4 (38.1)	28.0 (82.4)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	−24.9 (−12.8)	−25.6 (−14.1)	−20.2 (−4.4)	−11.0 (12.2)	−2.5 (27.5)	6.9 (44.4)	14.8 (58.6)	12.1 (53.8)	4.8 (40.6)	−2.5 (27.5)	−11.2 (11.8)	−19.2 (−2.6)	−6.5 (20.3)
Daily mean °C (°F)	−29.0 (−20.2)	−29.7 (−21.5)	−24.9 (−12.8)	−16.1 (3.0)	−6.0 (21.2)	3.5 (38.3)	10.2 (50.4)	8.2 (46.8)	2.0 (35.6)	−5.5 (22.1)	−15.5 (4.1)	−23.4 (−10.1)	−10.5 (13.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	−33.2 (−27.8)	−33.7 (−28.7)	−29.7 (−21.5)	−21.1 (−6.0)	−9.6 (14.7)	0.1 (32.2)	5.6 (42.1)	4.2 (39.6)	−0.8 (30.6)	−8.6 (16.5)	−19.8 (−3.6)	−27.6 (−17.7)	−14.5 (5.9)
Record low °C (°F)	−52.8 (−63.0)	−51.4 (−60.5)	−49.4 (−56.9)	−39.4 (−38.9)	−31.1 (−24.0)	−15.6 (3.9)	−1.1 (30.0)	−3.3 (26.1)	−17.2 (1.0)	−34.4 (−29.9)	−40.6 (−41.1)	−48.9 (−56.0)	−52.8 (−63.0)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	0.0 (0.0)	—	0.0 (0.0)	0.5 (0.02)	5.4 (0.21)	22.6 (0.89)	34.8 (1.37)	61.4 (2.42)	35.6 (1.40)	8.4 (0.33)	0.3 (0.01)	—	—
Average snowfall cm (inches)	—	11.2 (4.4)	—	9.6 (3.8)	18.1 (7.1)	14.8 (5.8)	5.4 (2.1)	0.0 (0.0)	0.0 (0.0)	7.8 (3.1)	28.1 (11.1)	22.9 (9.0)	—
Average relative humidity (%) (at 1500 LST)	67.4	66.4	69.2	74.5	80.3	73.1	62.8	69.1	75.8	85.5	79.7	72.0	73.0
Mean sunshine hours	37.9	112.1	187.4	240.2	239.9	262.2	312.3	220.4	109.8	70.8	47.9	18.8	1,859.7
Percentage possible sunshine	22.4	47.0	51.6	53.2	42.0	41.9	51.2	43.3	27.9	23.3	24.3	13.9	36.8
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (normals 1991–2020, extremes 1933–present)

Geological Resources

Limestone Purity

The limestone formations found in and around Coral Harbour, as well as in nearby regions like Bad Cache Rapids, are characterized by a "Low Purity" value for industrial applications. This geological assessment is a key factor in understanding the region's resource potential.

Notable Residents

Community Figures

Coral Harbour has been home to several influential figures in Nunavut's political and cultural landscape:

James Arvaluk: Nunavut's first Minister of Education and former MLA, representing constituencies like Nanulik and Tununiq.
Tagak Curley: Founder and first president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), a significant Inuit organization.
Patterk Netser: Former Member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut for Nanulik.
Pudlo Pudlat: A notable artist, born on Baffin Island, who spent his early childhood near Coral Harbour.
Manitok Thompson: Former MLA and Nunavut's first female cabinet minister.

Further Information

External Resources

The Coral Harbour Official Website
Media related to Coral Harbour on Wikimedia Commons
Coral Harbour facts from The Atlas of Canada

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References

Elevation at airport. Canada Flight Supplement. Effective 0901Z 16 July 2020 to 0901Z 10 September 2020.

Nunavut Communities

Canada Flight Supplement. Effective 0901Z 16 July 2020 to 0901Z 10 September 2020.

Arvaluk victorious in Nunavut by election

Nanulik

A full list of references for this article are available at the Coral Harbour Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding geography, history, culture, or any other relevant field. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Coral Harbour: Gateway to Nunavut's Arctic Majesty

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Overview 📍

🗺️ Location & Names

🏛️ Hamlet Status

🌐 Coordinates & Elevation

Historical Context 📜

⏳ Indigenous Roots

🚢 Repopulation & Influence

Demographics 👥

📊 Population Trends

⏰ Time Zone

Transportation & Wildlife ✈️

✈️ Access & Local Travel

🐾 Abundant Wildlife

Climate Data 🌡️

❄️ Subarctic Conditions

Geological Resources ⛏️

🪨 Limestone Purity

Notable Residents 👤

⭐ Community Figures

Further Information 🔗

🌐 External Resources

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Location & Names

Hamlet Status

Coordinates & Elevation

Historical Context

Indigenous Roots

Repopulation & Influence

Demographics

Population Trends

Time Zone

Transportation & Wildlife

Access & Local Travel

Abundant Wildlife

Climate Data

Subarctic Conditions

Geological Resources

Limestone Purity

Notable Residents

Community Figures

Further Information

External Resources

Teacher's Corner

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References

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