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Contents
- The climate of Reykjavík
- The best time to visit Reykjavík
- The worst time to visit Reykjavík
- Spring weather in Reykjavík
- Summer weather in Reykjavík
- Autumn weather in Reykjavík
- Winter weather in Reykjavík
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The city buildings of Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland, with a view of the sea, and a mountain with a snowy peak in the far distance
The climate of Reykjavík
Equipped with a Marine West Coast, cool summer climate, Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, maintains a Köppen climate classification of Cfc. Its geographical location lends to its unique and varied weather dynamics. Throughout the year, one expects average highs between 1.3°C (34.3°F) to 13.5°C (56.3°F) and lows in the range from -2.4°C (27.7°F) to 9.1°C (48.4°F), clearly indicating Reykjavík's predisposition to cold weather conditions.
Fluctuations in parameters such as humidity, rainfall, and snowfall provide a lens into Reykjavík's weather transformations across the calendar. Relative humidity stays consistent from 75% to 82% throughout the year, a feature indicative of the city's marine climate. Rainfall measures from a low of 25mm (0.98") in the summer months to a high of 47mm (1.85") in January, with rainfall days peaking at 17.8 days in September. On the contrary, snowfall is almost absent during the summer months, increasing to an impressive 100mm (3.94") in March, coupled with a significant escalation in snowfall days.
A noteworthy pattern emerges with sea surface temperatures, oscillating narrowly between 5.1°C (41.2°F) to 11.4°C (52.5°F). Furthermore, Reykjavík experiences daylight hours extending from 4.4 to 20.9, causing distinctive shifts in residents' lifestyle across the seasons. Another fascinating observation is the city's consistent visibility, holding at around 9km (5.6mi) to 10km (6.2mi) across the year.
Fluctuations in parameters such as humidity, rainfall, and snowfall provide a lens into Reykjavík's weather transformations across the calendar. Relative humidity stays consistent from 75% to 82% throughout the year, a feature indicative of the city's marine climate. Rainfall measures from a low of 25mm (0.98") in the summer months to a high of 47mm (1.85") in January, with rainfall days peaking at 17.8 days in September. On the contrary, snowfall is almost absent during the summer months, increasing to an impressive 100mm (3.94") in March, coupled with a significant escalation in snowfall days.
A noteworthy pattern emerges with sea surface temperatures, oscillating narrowly between 5.1°C (41.2°F) to 11.4°C (52.5°F). Furthermore, Reykjavík experiences daylight hours extending from 4.4 to 20.9, causing distinctive shifts in residents' lifestyle across the seasons. Another fascinating observation is the city's consistent visibility, holding at around 9km (5.6mi) to 10km (6.2mi) across the year.
The best time to visit Reykjavík
A visit to Reykjavík is most rewarding during the months of June, July, and August. These are the warmest months with temperatures hovering around 11.7°C (53.1°F) to 13.5°C (56.3°F). During this period, the city receives the most sunlight, stretching to an impressive 18.5 to 20.9 hours a day, providing extended opportunities to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Furthermore, rainfall decreases to its yearly low of 25mm (0.98"), making outdoor excursions more enjoyable. Also, the gusty winds moderate to around 14.9km/h (9.3mph) to 16.1km/h (10mph), providing a more comfortable atmosphere for sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Reykjavík
January and February present the most challenging conditions for travelers to Reykjavík. The city experiences its coldest temperatures dropping to as low as -1.4°C (29.5°F) to -2.4°C (27.7°F) and daylight becomes scarce with merely 5.6 to 8.6 hours. Additionally, these months usher in concerning snowfall, around 45mm (1.77") to 59mm (2.32"). Travelers might find outdoor activities hindered, not only by the cold, but also by limited visibility caused by consistent pressure changes from 996.6 mb to 997.8 mb.
Spring weather in Reykjavík
Spring, encompassing March, April, and May, witnesses a gradual warming trend in Reykjavík. Temperatures slowly climb from 2.3°C (36.1°F) to 8.3°C (46.9°F), with nighttime temperatures increasing from -1°C (30.2°F) to 4.1°C (39.4°F). Rainfall varies from 32mm (1.26") to 40mm (1.57"), yet snowfall dips drastically from 100mm (3.94") in March to a nearly negligible 2mm (0.08") by May. Daylight hours see a significant leap from 11.8 to 18.5 hours, signaling the end of winter's reign.
Summer weather in Reykjavík
Summer, from June to August, brings a much-desired respite from the cold for Reykjavík's inhabitants. With the highest temperatures of the year, ranging from 11.7°C (53.1°F) to 13.5°C (56.3°F), and minimum temperatures reaching a balmy 7.4°C (45.3°F) to 9.1°C (48.4°F), the city becomes a warmer retreat. Rainfall dips to its lowest at 25mm (0.98"), and snowfall is nonexistent. Furthermore, daylight reaches its zenith, an enormous 20.9 hours in June, slowly declining to 19.6 hours by August.
Autumn weather in Reykjavík
September to November marks Reykjavík's transition from sunny summer to frosty winter. Temperatures decline from 9.6°C (49.3°F) to 3.2°C (37.8°F), with nighttime temperatures experiencing a similar drop from 6.2°C (43.2°F) to 0.5°C (32.9°F). Rainfall begins to climb, reaching a high of 40mm (1.57") in September. Snowfall makes its reappearance, with November seeing the ground covered in around 17mm (0.67") of snow. Daylight hours decrease from 13 hours in September to a scant 6.5 hours by November.
Winter weather in Reykjavík
December through February constitute the winter season in Reykjavík, defined by its chilling temperatures, significant snowfall, and limited daylight. Average highs fluctuate between 1.3°C (34.3°F) and 1.8°C (35.2°F), along with lows dipping below the freezing point, varying from -2.4°C (27.7°F) to -1.3°C (29.7°F). Snowfall marks its presence significantly, peaking at 59mm (2.32") to 61mm (2.4"), embellishing the city in a white blanket. Daylight is scarce, traversing between a short 4.4 to 5.6 hours, concurrently enhancing the visibility of ethereal Aurora Borealis. However, UV index remains low at 1, safe-guarding visitors and inhabitants from potential UV radiation exposure.
Weather in January
Adjusting to the chill of winter, Reykjavík, Iceland braces for an average high of a mere 1.7°C (35.1°F) and an expected snowfall of 59mm (2.32"), illustrating the harshest weather conditions of the winter. Locals and tourists alike prepare for overcast skies and reduced daylight. Weather in January »
Weather in February
The weather in Reykjavík, Iceland continues its wintery course in February, slightly alleviating with an average high temperature of 1.8°C (35.2°F), but not without the impending snowfall of 45mm (1.77"). Despite the adverse conditions, the city becomes quieter with fewer tourists around this time. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Even with the onset of the spring season, Reykjavík, Iceland still experiences a fairly cold climate. The conditions soften slightly with an uptick in temperature to a gentle 2.3°C (36.1°F) coupled with a substantial snowfall of 100mm (3.94"), making it the snowiest month of the year. Weather in March »
Weather in April
By April, Reykjavík, Iceland starts experiencing milder weather conditions with the average high temperature rising to 4.9°C (40.8°F), with a reducing snowfall down to 22mm (0.87"), indicating weather nearing to spring. With daylight extending, warmth seeping into the ground, and signs of life proliferating, a sense of revival bestows over the city. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In May, Reykjavík, Iceland transitions into the warmth of spring with an average high temperature of 8.3°C (46.9°F). The snowfall comes to a full halt down at 2mm (0.08"), complementing the season's reputation for rebirth and rejuvenation. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June marks the arrival of summer in Reykjavík, Iceland with temperatures gradually reaching an average high of 11.7°C (53.1°F). The absence of snowfall coupled with increased daylight and sea temperatures of 9.3°C (48.7°F), induces a sense of warmth and lightness across the city. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July shines as the warmest month in Reykjavík, Iceland, achieving an average high of 13.5°C (56.3°F). Reflecting the height of summer season, there's a complete absence of snowfall while the sea temperature peaks at 11.4°C (52.5°F). Weather in July »
Weather in August
As Reykjavík, Iceland sails into August, the summer heat slightly drops to an average high of 12.8°C (55°F) while the sea temperature remains at a warm 11.3°C (52.3°F). Despite being the tail-end of summer, the city maintains its active outdoor lifestyle, capitalizing on the enduring warmth and the ample daylight. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Entering fall, the weather in Reykjavík, Iceland starts to cool in September, with an average high of 9.6°C (49.3°F) and the return of snowfall recorded at meager 0mm (0"). With its golden leaves and crisp air, September is high season for photographers and nature lovers. Weather in September »
Weather in October
The weather in Reykjavík, Iceland gets progressively colder in October, with an average high of 6.2°C (43.2°F) and the first signs of snowfall appearing at 3mm (0.12"). October's cool weather sends a clear signal of the beckoning winter, setting a soft frosty foundation for the upcoming season. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Reykjavík, Iceland faces the onset of winter in November, with temperatures dropping to an average high of 3.2°C (37.8°F), accompanied by a snowfall of 17mm (0.67"). With many outdoor activities coming to an end, the early onset of darkness and snow transforms the island into a winter wonderland. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Reykjavík, Iceland is the throes of winter, with an average high temperature of 1.3°C (34.3°F) and a significant snowfall of 61mm (2.4"). Throughout December, the city's streets become a magical winter scape, adorned with festive lights and decorations. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What are the most humid months in Reykjavík?
January, February and September, with an average relative humidity of 82%, are most humid months in Reykjavík, Iceland.
What is the rainiest month in Reykjavík?
The month with the most rainfall in Reykjavík is January, when the rain falls for 12.8 days and typically aggregates up to 47mm (1.85") of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Reykjavík?
In Reykjavík, during the entire year, the rain falls for 166.2 days and collects up to 416mm (16.38") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Reykjavík?
Months with snowfall in Reykjavík, Iceland, are January through May, October through December.
How much does it snow in Reykjavík?
In Reykjavík, during the entire year, snow falls for 41.1 days and aggregates up to 309mm (12.17") of snow.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Reykjavík?
With an average of 2.4h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year in Reykjavík.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Reykjavík?
The months with the lowest UV index in Reykjavík, Iceland, are January, February and November, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
When does it snow the most in Reykjavík?
The month with the most snowfall is March, when snow falls for 9.4 days and typically aggregates up to 100mm (3.94") of snow.
What is the month with the coldest sea water in Reykjavík?
With an average sea temperature of 5.1°C (41.2°F), March is the month with the coldest seawater in Reykjavík, Iceland.
What is the least humid month in Reykjavík?
With an average relative humidity of 75%, May is the least humid month in Reykjavík.
What is the driest month in Reykjavík?
June and July are months with the least rain in Reykjavík when the rain falls for 15.4 days and typically aggregates up to 25mm (0.98") of rain.
When it does not snow in Reykjavík?
June through September are months without snowfall in Reykjavík, Iceland.
When are the longest days in Reykjavík?
With an average of 20h and 54min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Reykjavík, Iceland.
What part of the year is the hottest in Reykjavík?
July temperatures in Reykjavík tend to peak at an average high of 13.5°C (56.3°F) and dip to a low of 9.1°C (48.4°F).
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Reykjavík?
With an average sea temperature of 11.4°C (52.5°F), July is the month with the warmest seawater.
When is the highest UV index in Reykjavík?
The month with the highest UV index in Reykjavík is July, with an average maximum UV index of 4.
What month has the most sunshine in Reykjavík?
August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.4h of sunshine.
What part of the year is the coldest in Reykjavík?
December is the month when Reykjavík experiences its coldest temperatures, averaging a high of 1.3°C (34.3°F) and a low of -2.4°C (27.7°F).
What is the month with the shortest days in Reykjavík?
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 4h and 24min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Reykjavík?
Reykjavík does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). GMT timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Reykjavík, Iceland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (13.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (1.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (9.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (-2.4°C).
Average pressure
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average pressure in January:
996.6mbar - Average pressure in February:
997.8mbar - Average pressure in March:
1003.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1008.9mbar - Average pressure in May:
1012.1mbar - Average pressure in June:
1013.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1009.5mbar - Average pressure in August:
1007.7mbar - Average pressure in September:
1002.9mbar - Average pressure in October:
1003.6mbar - Average pressure in November:
1001.4mbar - Average pressure in December:
998.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is June (1013.8mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is January (996.6mbar).
Average wind speed
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average wind speed in January:
24.5km/h - Average wind speed in February:
24.9km/h - Average wind speed in March:
23.4km/h - Average wind speed in April:
22.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
19.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
14.9km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
14.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
16km/h - Average wind speed in September:
20.4km/h - Average wind speed in October:
21.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
22.6km/h - Average wind speed in December:
23.6km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (24.9km/h).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are June and July (14.9km/h).
Average humidity
Reykjavík, Iceland
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and September (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is May (75%).
Average rainfall
Reykjavík, Iceland
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (47mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are June and July (25mm).
Average rainfall days
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average rainfall days in January:
12.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
15.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
17.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12 days - Average rainfall days in December:
9.7 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is September (17.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is December (9.7 days).
Average snowfall
Reykjavík, Iceland
The month with the highest snowfall is March (100mm).
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average snowfall days in January:
7.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
6.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
9.4 days - Average snowfall days in April:
5.5 days - Average snowfall days in May:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
3.9 days - Average snowfall days in December:
6.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is March (9.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Reykjavík, Iceland
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is July (11.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (5.1°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average daylight in January:
5h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
8h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
18h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
20h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
19h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
16h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in October:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
6h and 3min - Average daylight in December:
4h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 20h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 4h and 24min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
4h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Reykjavík, Iceland
- Average sunshine days in January:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
11.9 days - Average sunshine days in March:
10.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
10.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
10.1 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
9.2 days - Average sunshine days in August:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
8.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
14.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is December (14.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (8.8 days).
Average UV index
Reykjavík, Iceland
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and November (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Reykjavík, Iceland
The months with the most cloud cover are March and April (Cloud cover 68).
The months with the least cloud cover are August and December (Cloud cover 60).
Average visibility
Reykjavík, Iceland
The month with the highest visibility is June (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, July, August, September, October, November and December (9km).
Reykjavík, Iceland
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