The climate of Kristiansand
Kristiansand, a city in
Norway, possesses a Cfb climate classification according to Köppen. This generally correlates to a marine west coast climate, distinguished by warm summers. The city's placement along the coastline in Southern Norway significantly influences its entire weather profile.
A thorough overview of Kristiansand's climate throughout the year reveals a trend of moderately cold temperatures, noticeable precipitation, and distinct snowfall patterns. Temperature fluctuates annually, with the highest and lowest averages reaching 20.1°C (68.2°F) in
July and dropping as low as -5.1°C (22.8°F) in
February. Meanwhile, rainfall happens consistently throughout the year without significant deviation, varying from 59mm (2.32") in
April to 164mm (6.46") in
October and
November. Intriguingly, the city experiences snowfall primarily from
December to February and sporadically in November.
The sunshine hours also vary across the year, reaching a peak of 8 hours in
June and July and dipping as low as an hour per day in December and
January. Sea temperatures, while not directly impacting most visitors, follow a typical pattern: They peak at 17.7°C (63.9°F) in
August before diminishing to 4.3°C (39.7°F) in
March.
The best time to visit Kristiansand
From the climate perspective, the optimum time to visit
Kristiansand is in the summer, specifically between
June and
August. During these months, the city enjoys its warmest temperatures, hovering between 14.3°C (57.7°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). Maximum daylight hours, reaching up to 18.1 in June, along with high sea temperatures make these months ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. The highest UV index of 5 during this period enhances the overall appeal for experiencing natural sunlight. However, visitors may want to carry an umbrella during these months since weather conditions indicate an occurrence of rainfall ranging from 75mm (2.95") to 88mm (3.46").
The worst time to visit Kristiansand
In contrast, the period between
December and
February can be challenging for travelers due to harsh winter conditions. The temperatures during these months drop to a chilling -4.8°C (23.4°F) to 3°C (37.4°F), making it not only the coldest but also the least inviting time of the year. The daylight hours also fall significantly, reaching a low of 6.6 hours in December, which restricts outdoor activities. The noticeable snowfall during these months, with up to 150mm (5.91") in December and
January might make travel difficult.
Spring weather in Kristiansand
In
Kristiansand, spring displays a gradual transition from the cold winter. The period stretching from
March to
May showcases mildly increasing temperatures, ranging from 4.4°C (39.9°F) to 14.3°C (57.7°F). Rainfall patterns remain relatively consistent, with precipitation measuring between 59mm (2.32") to 86mm (3.39"). The snowfall ceases completely by
April, allowing outdoor pursuits to resume comfortably. As days become longer, sunshine hours also noticeably increase from 3 to 7 hours per day during this period.
Summer weather in Kristiansand
Summer in
Kristiansand is epitomized by the warm and comfortable weather conditions.
June to
August marks the warmest period with temperatures ranging from 14.3°C (57.7°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). While there is a fair amount of rain between 75mm (2.95") to 88mm (3.46"), the ample sunshine of 7-8 hours per day offsets the damp conditions. Moreover, the daylight hours peak during this period, providing long, sunny days to enjoy outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Kristiansand
Autumn weather in
Kristiansand, from
September to
November, ushers with noticeable changes in weather parameters. Temperatures progressively decrease from 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 6.2°C (43.2°F) and rainfall peaks during these months, reaching highest volumetric input - 164mm (6.46") in
October and November. Even though the sunshine duration falls drastically from 4 hours to 2 hours per day, the receding daylight hours present a beautiful display of autumn foliage.
Winter weather in Kristiansand
The winter in
Kristiansand spans from
December to
February, characterized by icy temperatures and substantial snowfall. The temperature drops significantly, ranging from -4.8°C (23.4°F) in
January to 3°C (37.4°F) in December. The city experiences the highest snowfall between 150mm (5.91") in December and February, with little to no snow in the rest of the year. Despite the chilling weather, the city exhibits its own charm with snowy landscapes. Sunshine during these months is minimal, with only 1 hour per day, further emphasizing the chilly winter ambiance.
Weather in January
Weather in February
The month of
February is marked by winter weather conditions that persist in this Norwegian city. Temperatures rise marginally from
January peaking at 1.9°C (35.4°F), yet the cold grasp of winter is far from relinquished. The snowfall amount witnesses a considerable increase with 200mm (7.87") expected to accumulate throughout the month, appealing to winter sport enthusiasts.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March sets in, the abrasive grip of winter begins to taper off in
Kristiansand. While the maximum temperature rises to a gentle 4.4°C (39.9°F), the city breathes a sigh of relief and revels in the thawing phase. Although rainfall persists, the snowfall drops to a meagre 50mm (1.97"), ushering in the onset of spring.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Kristiansand witnesses the transition from winter to spring conditions. A substantial leap in temperature — from 4.4°C (39.9°F) in
March to 8.9°C (48°F) in April — signals the changing weather. This transition month is characterized by an absence of snowfall, signifying the complete departure of winter elements.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May is a delightful time to be in
Kristiansand due to its hospitable weather conditions. There's a perceptible leap in the maximum temperature, from 8.9°C (48°F) in
April to a comfortable 14.3°C (57.7°F), marking the establishment of spring in its full glory.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June sees the glorious onset of summer in
Kristiansand, and the weather conditions are nothing short of remarkable. The city experiences its longest daylight span of 18.1 hours in this month, enabling an extended schedule of outdoor exploration.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is synonymous with balmy summer days in
Kristiansand, marked by splendid weather. The mercury readings reach their pinnacle during this month, touching an annual high of 20.1°C (68.2°F). Beach activities are in full swing, fostered by warm seawater temperatures that entice beachgoers.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August is another gem of a summer month in
Kristiansand, characterized by warm weather, albeit with temperatures dipping slightly from the
July peak to 19.3°C (66.7°F). Nevertheless, the city basks in still pleasing warmth. Rainfall gains momentum, recording 118mm (4.65") throughout the month, adding a refreshing touch to the summer heat.
Weather in August » Weather in September
In
September, the city witnesses a shift in weather from the heat of summer to the more mellow climes of fall. Temperatures endure a notable drop to a cooler 15.6°C (60.1°F), ushering in more comfortable conditions. Amid the drop in temperature and shorter sunlight hours, rainfall is at its apex with 141mm (5.55") recorded for the month.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October invigorates
Kristiansand with the crisp charm of autumn. The maximum temperature retreats further to a cooler 11.4°C (52.5°F) from the previous month's 15.6°C (60.1°F). Despite this, the city continues to dazzle with its vibrant array of autumnal colors.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Kristiansand is highlighted by an onset of chill, indicative of the approaching winter. Maximum temperatures dip further to a lower 6.2°C (43.2°F), and the first traces of snow begin to grace the city. The month continues to bear higher rainfall with 164mm (6.46") recorded, identical to
October.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December welcomes the winter season in full swing in
Kristiansand, characterized by chilling temperatures and snowfall. With maximum temperature dwindling to 3°C (37.4°F) and a substantial 150mm (5.91") of snow accumulation, the city transforms into a winter wonderland.
Weather in December » [Resources]