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Contents
- The climate of Longyearbyen
- The best time to visit Longyearbyen
- The worst time to visit Longyearbyen
- Spring weather in Longyearbyen
- Summer weather in Longyearbyen
- Autumn weather in Longyearbyen
- Winter weather in Longyearbyen
- 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 rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The frozen Arctic Blue Sea overlooking the snow-covered mountains in the background in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen
The climate of Longyearbyen
The geographical location of Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen paints a clear picture of the climatic conditions experienced in the region. Longyearbyen is in the ET climate zone, as per the Köppen climate classification, synonymous with a Tundra climate type. Positioned far in the north, where cold and harsh weather systems prevail year-round, Longyearbyen registers average temperatures that frequently dip below freezing.
A quick glance at monthly temperature data reveals a fluctuation in temperature, ranging from -21°C (-5.8°F) during the peak winter months to a meager high of 7°C (44.6°F) during the moderate summer months. In terms of rain, the period between January to December experiences a numerical variation from 13mm (0.51") to 30mm (1.18") in rainfall per month. Along with possibly severe tundra conditions, overcast weather defines the countenance of Longyearbyen's skies with a fair number of rainfall days notably from June to August.
The months from November to February display an extreme lack of daylight, often registering virtually zero hours due to the polar night. On the other hand, maximum daylight is experienced during the mid-year months of June and July, with unbroken sunlight for an entire 24-hour cycle, a phenomenon colloquially termed as the ‘Midnight Sun.’
A quick glance at monthly temperature data reveals a fluctuation in temperature, ranging from -21°C (-5.8°F) during the peak winter months to a meager high of 7°C (44.6°F) during the moderate summer months. In terms of rain, the period between January to December experiences a numerical variation from 13mm (0.51") to 30mm (1.18") in rainfall per month. Along with possibly severe tundra conditions, overcast weather defines the countenance of Longyearbyen's skies with a fair number of rainfall days notably from June to August.
The months from November to February display an extreme lack of daylight, often registering virtually zero hours due to the polar night. On the other hand, maximum daylight is experienced during the mid-year months of June and July, with unbroken sunlight for an entire 24-hour cycle, a phenomenon colloquially termed as the ‘Midnight Sun.’
The best time to visit Longyearbyen
While the concept of 'ideal' is highly subjective, a moderate level of rainfall and slightly warmer temperaures make the months between June and August a recommended period to visit Longyearbyen. During this time, the average temperatures range from 3°C (37.4°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). The occurrence of rainfall is more frequent with 17 to 18 days of rain recorded within these months, but the quantity of rainfall is manageable with an average of 24mm (0.94") to 30mm (1.18").
Furthermore, daylight is continuous during these summer months, offering unbroken sunlight, a rare and unique opportunity for visitors to experience. Although the UV index remains at a moderate 2, safety measures against possible sun exposure are recommended due to prolonged daylight.
Furthermore, daylight is continuous during these summer months, offering unbroken sunlight, a rare and unique opportunity for visitors to experience. Although the UV index remains at a moderate 2, safety measures against possible sun exposure are recommended due to prolonged daylight.
The worst time to visit Longyearbyen
Months marked by extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and significant lack of daylight make January and December the most challenging periods to visit Longyearbyen. During these months, the average temperature plunges to between -13°C (8.6°F) to -20°C (-4°F), making the climate harsh and potentially dangerous. The days are shrouded in darkness with daylight hours registering at zero due to the Polar Night.
Visitors during this period should be prepared for plenty of snowfall as well, with a record of 21 to 22 snowfall days. Moreover, as much as Longyearbyen is a winter wonderland during these times, the weather conditions can be quite treacherous and inclement for travel and sightseeing.
Visitors during this period should be prepared for plenty of snowfall as well, with a record of 21 to 22 snowfall days. Moreover, as much as Longyearbyen is a winter wonderland during these times, the weather conditions can be quite treacherous and inclement for travel and sightseeing.
Spring weather in Longyearbyen
Spring in Longyearbyen, experienced between March and May, is characterized by gradually rising temperatures and increasing daylight hours. The temperatures range from -9°C (15.8°F) to -3°C (26.6°F) and daylight extends from 11.5 hours in March to an uninterrupted 24 hours in May. Rainfall averages between 16mm (0.63") to 13mm (0.51"), and while rainy days increase, they remain few compared with summer months.
Snowfall remains significant during this period, although the frequency of snowfall days begins to decrease from 17 days in March to 16 in May. Despite the lingering chill, spring ushers in a welcome change from the extreme winter conditions.
Snowfall remains significant during this period, although the frequency of snowfall days begins to decrease from 17 days in March to 16 in May. Despite the lingering chill, spring ushers in a welcome change from the extreme winter conditions.
Summer weather in Longyearbyen
The summer months of June through August are marked by relatively warmer temperatures oscillating from 3°C (37.4°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). Longyearbyen experiences perpetual daylight during this period, with an extraordinary 24-hour sunlight cycle in June and July, decreasing slightly to 23.2 hours in August.
The occurrence of rainfall is at its peak, with 13 to 18 rainy days monthly, but the rainfall volume tends to fall within manageable levels, between 18mm (0.71") and 30mm (1.18"). Snowfall is more a rarity during summer with only one to two days of snowfall recorded between June and August.
The occurrence of rainfall is at its peak, with 13 to 18 rainy days monthly, but the rainfall volume tends to fall within manageable levels, between 18mm (0.71") and 30mm (1.18"). Snowfall is more a rarity during summer with only one to two days of snowfall recorded between June and August.
Autumn weather in Longyearbyen
Autumn in Longyearbyen, observed from September to November, is characterized by a significant drop in temperatures and reduction in daylight hours. September temperatures average at 1°C (33.8°F) declining to -4°C (24.8°F) in October and further to -8°C (17.6°F) in November. The daylight contracts considerably from 14.5 hours in September to a mere 5.6 by November.
Rainfall during autumn ranges from 19mm (0.75") to 22mm (0.87"), and while the number of rainy days decreases, a steady increase in snowfall days is noted. Autumn thus ushers in the harshness of the ensuing winter shortening daylight hours and gradually intensifying cold conditions.
Rainfall during autumn ranges from 19mm (0.75") to 22mm (0.87"), and while the number of rainy days decreases, a steady increase in snowfall days is noted. Autumn thus ushers in the harshness of the ensuing winter shortening daylight hours and gradually intensifying cold conditions.
Winter weather in Longyearbyen
Winter in Longyearbyen officially sets in from December and extends up to February. Characterized by extreme cold and darkness, the winter months record temperatures between -18°C (-0.4°F) and -13°C (8.6°F). The Polar Night results in zero daylight hours, prevailing throughout both December and January.
Average monthly rainfall amounts fluctuates from 22mm (0.87") to 25mm (0.98"). The rains gradually change to snow with December and January experiencing a peak of 22 days of snowfall. The tundra condition of Longyearbyen is on full display during winter, with the cold, snow, and darkness informing a majority of the season's weather patterns.
Average monthly rainfall amounts fluctuates from 22mm (0.87") to 25mm (0.98"). The rains gradually change to snow with December and January experiencing a peak of 22 days of snowfall. The tundra condition of Longyearbyen is on full display during winter, with the cold, snow, and darkness informing a majority of the season's weather patterns.
Weather in January
Thriving in the heart of an Arctic winter, Longyearbyen experiences notably severe weather conditions in January. With a high temperature hovering at a practically constant -13°C (8.6°F) and lows plunging to an incredibly harsh -20°C (-4°F), frosty cold permeates every aspect of this month's weather. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February follows close on the heels of January, upholding the cold weather routine of high temperatures steadily at -13°C (8.6°F) and lows sinking to an icy -21°C (-5.8°F). The sun shines feebly for 2.3 hours, attempting to break through the Arctic winter's enduring blanket of darkness. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As the calendar flips to March, the vestiges of severe winter begin to alleviate. An evident shift occurs in Longyearbyen's weather with the temperatures eventually rising to -9°C (15.8°F) from a stubbornly stable -13°C (8.6°F) in the previous months. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers in a weather regimen that sees the temperatures finally climb out of the biting double-digit negatives to a relatively warmer -3°C (26.6°F). At long last, Longyearbyen experiences continuous daylight for 20.8 hours, indicating the promise of summer. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As May surfaces, Longyearbyen basks in the luxury of continuous daylight for the first time this year. The frozen landscape starts to ebb, revealing a mosaic of yellows and greens as the town blooms into the midnight sun phenomenon. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Longyearbyen signifies the firm establishment of summer with the temperature high reaching a pleasant 7°C (44.6°F). The town relishes a full 24 hours of daylight, bright enough to cast shadows even at midnight. It is a time for migratory birds to flock back, adding sound and life to the silent, stark tundra. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In July, Longyearbyen experiences its warmest weather conditions with the temperature reaching the year's peak at 7°C (44.6°F). It is a balmy summer month replete with a full 24 hours of daylight. Despite the warm air, a remnant of the frozen landscape lingers with one lone day of snowfall, serving as a reminder of the incredible diversity in the city’s weather. Weather in July »
Weather in August
The weather in August sees a subtle fall in the high temperature to 6°C (42.8°F) from 7°C (44.6°F) in July. Farewell to the brief Arctic summer begins as daylight shortens to 23.2 hours. While the overall climate remains largely clear with a visible decrease in rainfall and snowfall days, sunsets cast a beautiful warm glow over the landscape. Weather in August »
Weather in September
With September setting in, the cheerful chatter of birds gradually subsides and the advent of winter looms again. The temperature drops drastically to 1°C (33.8°F), taking a steeper descent compared to the previous month’s 6°C (42.8°F). Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Longyearbyen is synonymous with the onset of a long Arctic winter. The temperature again drops to -4°C (24.8°F), creating a perceptible chill in the air. Under the crisp, clear skies, daylight hours continue to dwindle, existing only for 5.6 hours. Weather in October »
Weather in November
The weather in November witnesses a significant drop in temperature to a chilling -8°C (17.6°F). The arctic city plunges into unwavering darkness as daylight hours reduce to none. Now, the previously teeming wildlife recedes as the frozen tundra returns. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Longyearbyen is marked by the persistent domination of wintry conditions. The temperature reaches its second lowest at -11°C (12.2°F), just one degree more than the year’s lowest in February. Intermittent flurries of snowfall persist for 22 days, deepening the winter freeze further. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Longyearbyen?
January through March in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, are characterised by lowest temperatures, with an average high of -13°C (8.6°F).
How many days does it rain in Longyearbyen?
In Longyearbyen, during the entire year, the rain falls for 86 days and collects up to 271mm (10.67") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Longyearbyen?
Months with snowfall in Longyearbyen are January through December.
How many days does it snow in Longyearbyen?
Throughout the year, in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, there are 176 snowfall days.
What is the month with the shortest days in Longyearbyen?
January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days.
What are the months with the least sunshine in Longyearbyen?
January, February, November and December, with an average of 0h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Longyearbyen?
January through March, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 0, are months with the lowest UV index in Longyearbyen.
What months are the sea coldest in Longyearbyen?
February and April, with an average sea temperature of 1°C (33.8°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen.
What is the driest month in Longyearbyen?
May is the month with the least rainfall in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen. Rain falls for 4 days and accumulates 13mm (0.51") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine in Longyearbyen?
With an average of 8.2h of sunshine, May has the most sunshine of the year in Longyearbyen.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Longyearbyen?
May through July, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the highest UV index in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen.
What is the warmest month in Longyearbyen?
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, experiences its highest temperatures in July, with an average peak of 7°C (44.6°F) and a low of 3°C (37.4°F).
When it does not snow in Longyearbyen?
July has the least snowfall days of the year. Snow falls for 1 days.
What is the rainiest month in Longyearbyen?
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 18 days and typically aggregates up to 30mm (1.18") of precipitation.
When is the sea warmest in Longyearbyen?
With an average sea temperature of 6°C (42.8°F), August is the month with the warmest seawater.
When are the longest days in Longyearbyen?
With an average of 14h and 30min of daylight, September has the longest days of the year.
When does it snow the most in Longyearbyen?
The months with the most snowfall days in Longyearbyen are November and December, with an average of 22 snowfall days.
Average temperature
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (7°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are January, February and March (-13°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-21°C).
Average rainfall
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (30mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is May (13mm).
Average rainfall days
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
- Average rainfall days in January:
2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
17 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14 days - Average rainfall days in October:
5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (18 days).
The months with the least rainy days are January, February and March (2 days).
Average snowfall days
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
- Average snowfall days in January:
21 days - Average snowfall days in February:
17 days - Average snowfall days in March:
19 days - Average snowfall days in April:
17 days - Average snowfall days in May:
16 days - Average snowfall days in June:
7 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
1 days - Average snowfall days in August:
2 days - Average snowfall days in September:
11 days - Average snowfall days in October:
21 days - Average snowfall days in November:
22 days - Average snowfall days in December:
22 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are November and December (22 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is July (1 days).
Average sea temperature
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (6°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are February and April (1°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
- Average daylight in January:
0h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
2h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
0h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
0h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
0h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
4h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
5h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
0h and 0min - Average daylight in December:
0h and 0min
The month with the longest days is September (Average daylight: 14h and 30min).
The months with the shortest days are January, May, June, July, November and December (Average daylight: 0h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
0h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
0h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
2h and 3min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 3min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
2h and 3min - Average sunshine in October:
0h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
0h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 8h and 12min).
The months with the least sunshine are January, February, November and December (Average sunshine: 0h and 0min).
Average UV index
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The months with the highest UV index are May, June and July (UV index 2).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, October, November and December (UV index 0).
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
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