The climate of Lillehammer
Located in
Norway,
Lillehammer experiences a subarctic climate, ranked as Dfc in the Köppen climate classification - suggesting a severe winter, no dry season, and a cool summer. Overall, the climate can be defined by sharp seasonal contrasts and a wide range of weather conditions.
Throughout the year, temperatures in Lillehammer display significant fluctuations, ranging from a cold -11.5°C (11.3°F) in winter months to a mild 18.3°C (64.9°F) in the summer period. More detailed, the lower limit of temperatures registers at -11.5°C (11.3°F) in
January and climbs to 8.3°C (46.9°F) in
July. On the other hand, the upper limit begins from -5.8°C (21.6°F) in January and escalates to 18.3°C (64.9°F) in July.
A notable attribute of Lillehammer's climate is the precipitation distribution. Months from
May to
August record precipitation levels that exceed 50mm (1.97"), with the apex in July with 78mm (3.07"). Meanwhile, snowfall is predominantly concentrated in late autumn and winter, from
October to
March.
A prominent weather feature is the considerable reduction of relative humidity from May to July. Though consisting of high humidity levels throughout the year, this figure diminishes to a low of 70 during the aforementioned months. Unusually, UV index remains low regardless of the season, indicating mild sunlight intensity.
The best time to visit Lillehammer
Taking into consideration the recorded climatic data, the most favourable period to visit
Lillehammer would be from
May to
August. This period witnesses a combination of mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and high visibility.
Daylight hours climb to 17.5 in May and peak at 19.2 in
June, providing ample time to indulge in outdoor activities. Concurrently, visibility escalates to 9km (5.6mi), endorsing clear views and pleasant strolls.
Moreover, these warmer months experience less snowfall and an increased amount of rainfall. Although rain frequents in these months, it's generally scattered and not persistent which makes exploring the city feasible.
The worst time to visit Lillehammer
Arguably, the most challenging time to visit
Lillehammer would be the cold season stretching from
November to
March. This timeframe observes the harshest weather conditions with the lowest temperatures, ample snowfall, and short daylight hours.
The scarcity of daylight that bottoms at 5.7 hours in
December coupled with temperatures dropping to -11.5°C (11.3°F) in
January can pose restrictions on outdoor experiences. Furthermore, snowfall reaches up to 237mm (9.33") in December, 212mm (8.35") in January, indicating roads may be slippery, visibility may be reduced, and travel could be more challenging.
Spring weather in Lillehammer
From
March onwards,
Lillehammer ushers in the spring season, marked by gradual temperature increases and longer daylight hours. March observes temperatures at -0.9°C (30.4°F) but by
May, the figures ascend to 11.3°C (52.3°F).
Daylight hours experience a significant jump from 11.8 hours in March to 17.5 hours in May. However, caution should be applied for visitors during spring, as this period accompanies considerable amounts of rainfall, peaking at 54mm (2.13") in May, along with visible humidity drop.
Summer weather in Lillehammer
The summer season in
Lillehammer, spanning from
June to
August, is marked by the highest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and the most rainfall. June and
July record the highest temperatures at 16.2°C (61.2°F) and 18.3°C (64.9°F), respectively.
The daylight duration ranges from 19.2 hours in June to 15.7 hours in August. Although rainfall and humidity are relatively high during this period, the summer months also offer the highest visibility, at 9 km in both June and July, conducive for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Autumn weather in Lillehammer
Autumn arrives in
Lillehammer in
September with a gradual decrease in temperatures and daylight hours. Lower temperatures drop from 4.2°C (39.6°F) to -0.2°C (31.6°F) while the upper temperatures decrease from 12°C (53.6°F) to 5.3°C (41.5°F).
Simultaneously, daylight hours decline from 12.9 hours in September to just 7.3 hours by
November. This season is notable for a return to higher humidity levels and the commencement of notable snowfall, registering 65mm (2.56") in
October.
Winter weather in Lillehammer
Winter in
Lillehammer exhibits the coldest temperatures, shortest daylight hours, and significant snowfall.
January showcases the lowest temperatures, between -11.5°C (11.3°F) and -5.8°C (21.6°F), while daylight hours shrink to 6.6 hours.
Snowfall is a predominant feature of Lillehammer's winter, peaking at 237mm (9.33") in
December. Relative humidity hovers in the high nineties, while UV index drops down to 1, indicating very low sun intensity. Notably, wind speeds pick up during this season, registering a maximum gust of 15.8km/h (9.8mph) in December. This season often attracts winter sports enthusiasts due to the amount and persistence of quality snow.
Weather in January
January in
Lillehammer,
Norway sees the year off to a frosty start, with the chill settling in firmly. It is a winter wonderland, covered in a blanket of snowfall that reaches an impressive 237mm (9.33"). Cold weather clothing is a must, as the city's inhabitants navigate icy pavements and snow-laden streets.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As winter continues its hold on
Lillehammer in
February, temperature lows dip to a chilling -10.8°C (12.6°F). The Norwegian city remains blanketed by snow, adding to the ethereal beauty of this winter paradise. Still, the promise of spring is on the horizon with daylight hours beginning to increase, albeit slowly.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The arrival of
March in
Lillehammer brings slight relief from the intense winter cold. The days start to extend under the slowly strengthening sun. However, the city remains firmly in the grip of winter. Average snowfall continues to be substantial, with monthly average measuring 200mm (7.87").
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April sees a substantial shift in weather patterns in
Lillehammer. Warmer temperatures begin to thaw the winter landscape, making outdoor activities more inviting. The spring air is scented with the promise of new life as plants start to bud.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May,
Lillehammer basks in the full bloom of spring. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the improving weather conditions. The glorious spectacle of nature's renewal unfolds as Lillehammer's flora flaunts its vibrancy. The city receives increased rainfall, with averages at 54mm (2.13"), nourishing the land after the long winter.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Lillehammer shows the summer season in full swing. With 19.2 hours of daylight each day, there is more time to relish the outdoors. The city celebrates the arrival of comfortable warmth, punctuated occasionally by transient showers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July boasts the highest temperatures in
Lillehammer, soaring to an average high of 18.3°C (64.9°F). The city basks in the height of summer, as the sun casts a warm, golden hue on the vibrant landscapes. Residents and visitors delight in the abundance of fine weather and natural beauty.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August witnesses a slight dip in temperature from peak
July but remains comfortably warm. Sunny days and cool nights define
Lillehammer's weather pattern during this month. The changing temperatures hint at the approaching autumn.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September presents
Lillehammer cloaked in the breathtaking colors of autumn. Trees painted in warm hues provide a striking contrast against the clear blue sky. As the city transitions from summer, temperatures begin to drop. This month records a decline in daylight hours while witnessing an increase in cloudiness at 53%.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Lillehammer's
October marks the definitive arrival of autumn, with visible changes in the environment. Drop in temperature continues to be more pronounced, creating a crispness in the atmosphere. The city, awash in a riot of warm colors, offers a captivating sight.
Weather in October » Weather in November
With the arrival of
November,
Lillehammer prepares for winter's arrival. Temperatures drop further to an average low of -4.5°C (23.9°F). The city's landscape starts to transform, painted with white as the first snow begins to fall.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December paints
Lillehammer in stark winter shades. The season reaches its peak, with average snowfall increasing to 212mm (8.35"). The city's holiday decor adds warmth amidst the chilly weather. Residents brace themselves for the year's coldest days and longest nights.
Weather in December » [Resources]