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Contents
- The climate of Helsinki
- The best time to visit Helsinki
- The worst time to visit Helsinki
- Spring weather in Helsinki
- Summer weather in Helsinki
- Autumn weather in Helsinki
- Winter weather in Helsinki
- 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
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
A scenic reflection in the water of the illuminated city of Helsinki in Finland
The climate of Helsinki
Helsinki, Finland lies within the reach of a humid continental climate, denoted as Dfb under the Köppen climate classification. The geographical position of Helsinki navigates to prolonged and frigid winters accompanied by shorter and moderately warm summers. A particular steadiness in the climatological parameters marks the weather patterns in Helsinki.
The annual flow of temperature lists a low point of -7.4°C (18.7°F) in February, trailing up to a peak of 21.5°C (70.7°F) typically in July. The run of minimum temperatures holds true to a similar pattern, descending to -6.5°C (20.3°F) in January and ambling to 14.2°C (57.6°F) in July. As for precipitation, this northern metropolis sees increased amounts in the warmer months, peaking from 63mm (2.48") in July to 80mm (3.15") in August. However, it remains predominantly humid, with an average of 11 rainfall days in May and 20 during December.
Snow in Helsinki is almost a constant companion during the winter months, wherein snowfall measures from 140mm (5.51") in March to 230mm (9.06") in February. Sea temperatures remain in a rather cold range throughout the year, pinpointing lowest at 1°C (33.8°F) from January to March and hitting high at a cool 16°C (60.8°F) in August. The earth’s axial tilt decides daylight hours, presenting the shortest days of 6 hours in December and January, and the longest ones of 18 hours in June.
The annual flow of temperature lists a low point of -7.4°C (18.7°F) in February, trailing up to a peak of 21.5°C (70.7°F) typically in July. The run of minimum temperatures holds true to a similar pattern, descending to -6.5°C (20.3°F) in January and ambling to 14.2°C (57.6°F) in July. As for precipitation, this northern metropolis sees increased amounts in the warmer months, peaking from 63mm (2.48") in July to 80mm (3.15") in August. However, it remains predominantly humid, with an average of 11 rainfall days in May and 20 during December.
Snow in Helsinki is almost a constant companion during the winter months, wherein snowfall measures from 140mm (5.51") in March to 230mm (9.06") in February. Sea temperatures remain in a rather cold range throughout the year, pinpointing lowest at 1°C (33.8°F) from January to March and hitting high at a cool 16°C (60.8°F) in August. The earth’s axial tilt decides daylight hours, presenting the shortest days of 6 hours in December and January, and the longest ones of 18 hours in June.
The best time to visit Helsinki
Even though weather permanence takes up the routine in Helsinki, the city’s enthralling charm is best experienced during the summer months. With temperatures rising to a comfortable 21.5°C (70.7°F) high in July and 13.1°C (55.6°F) low in August, the warmer months from June to August also bestow the city with the longest daylight hours. The highest sea temperatures, albeit still cold, can be experienced in August at around 16°C (60.8°F), making these months perfect for embracing outdoor activities and enjoying the archipelago's scenic beauty.
The worst time to visit Helsinki
The period from November to March witnesses the harshest weather conditions in Helsinki. Not only do temperatures stoop low to -1.3°C (29.7°F) and -4.5°C (23.9°F) in December, but the city also faces heavy snowfall with measurements spiking up to 210mm (8.27") in January. The icy Baltic Sea also remains at its coldest, oscillating from 1°C (33.8°F) to 3°C (37.4°F). This period also renders shorter daylight hours, diminishing further to 6 hours in December, accompanied by the least amount of sunshine.
Spring weather in Helsinki
Following the biting cold winters, spring commences a gentle respite. From a chilling -1.9°C (28.6°F) in February, temperatures journey to a pleasant 7.6°C (45.7°F) high by April with lows from -7.4°C (18.7°F) to 0.8°C (33.4°F). As one transitions from winter to spring, snowfall decreases from 230mm (9.06") in February to null in April. Rainfall inches up from 36mm (1.42") to 32mm (1.26"). A notable feature of spring is the significant increment in daylight hours - from 9.2 hours in February to 14.6 in April.
Summer weather in Helsinki
Helsinki enjoys moderately warm summers, with the highest temperatures observed in July at around 21.5°C (70.7°F). The minimum temperatures navigate from a cooler 6.3°C (43.3°F) in May to a comfortable 14.2°C (57.6°F) in July. Rainfall during summer observes fluctuations between 37mm (1.46") to 63mm (2.48"), complemented by numerous sunshine hours, peaking at 9.9 hours in June. Recreational activities and sightseeing become invigorating experiences with increased daylight - from 17.2 hours in May to 18 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Helsinki
Autumn months in Helsinki offer a transition to colder weather from the warmer summer months. Highs oscillate from 19.8°C (67.6°F) in September to a chilly 0.5°C (32.9°F) in December, while the lows take a plunge from 13.1°C (55.6°F) to -4.5°C (23.9°F). Rainfall spikes from September’s 56mm (2.2") to November’s 70mm (2.76"). The retreat of daylight hours is quite apparent, going from 15.6 hours in September to only 6 in December.
Winter weather in Helsinki
Winters in Helsinki can be extremely cold and harsh. High temperatures fall to -1.3°C (29.7°F) in December and January, while the minimum temperatures drop to -6.5°C (20.3°F). Heavy snowfall often characterizes winter, ranging from 40mm (1.57") in November to 210mm (8.27") in January. Daylight becomes a scarce resource during these months, attaining a low of 6 hours in December and January, contributing to the city's picture-perfect winter setting.
Weather in January
In the heart of winter, January in Helsinki, Finland, is embraced by frost. The lowest temperatures dip to -6.5°C (20.3°F), while the chilliest days see a high of -1.3°C (29.7°F). Snowfall is a frequent companion with 210mm (8.27") spread throughout the month, providing a classic winter scenery. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As winter continues its reign over February, temperatures in Helsinki reveal a slight drop compared to January. Average temperatures remain in the negative, preserving the snowfall, which reaches 230mm (9.06") in February, reinforcing the wintery landscapes. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Welcoming spring, March in Helsinki exhibits a significant shift in the weather. Temperatures move away from the intense chill of winter reflecting a potential high of 1.6°C (34.9°F). The advent of spring results in less frequent snowfall, tallying at 140mm (5.51"), as March paves the way for the ensuing warmth. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April embodies a definite spring environment characterized by increased warmth in Helsinki. With the absence of snowfall, the city adopts a fresh, vibrant look. Daylight extends to an inviting 14.6h, a stark contrast to the dim winter months. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Helsinki signals the onset of summer as the weather patterns make a noteworthy shift. Daylight dominates the day spanning 17.2h, which correspondents to amplified sunshine hours. A pleasant warmth envelops Helsinki, with a notable elevation in sea temperatures to 5°C (41°F), encouraging visitation to the city's coastal regions. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June showcases the arrival of summer in full force, presenting Helsinki in its most sun-soaked period. Being one of the warmest months, temperatures escalate to an amiable 18.5°C (65.3°F), rendering pleasant summer afternoons. Daylight, at its maximum, reaches an impressive 18.8h, making room for extended ubiquitous summer activities. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Helsinki's weather in July radiates the essence of a classic Finnish summer. Accounting for the year's highest temperatures, mercury potentially ascends to a pleasant 21.5°C (70.7°F). The sea temperatures peak at 15°C (59°F), becoming particularly enticing for sea ventures. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August marks the transition from summer to autumn in Helsinki, albeit retaining core summer characteristics. Mild temperatures touching a high of 19.8°C (67.6°F) ensures a continued warm ambiance. The highest figure of 80mm (3.15") rainfall may require some adaptation to the frequent showers. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Entering autumn, September in Helsinki shifts the weather narrative towards a cooler milieu. The city's foliage dons autumn hues matching the moderating temperatures presetting a high of 14.6°C (58.3°F). Despite reduced sunlight and daylight hours shortened to 12.9h, the ambiance stays invigorating. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Helsinki features an escalating autumn chill, culminating in a bracing climatic experience. With sea temperatures retreating to 10°C (50°F) and with daylight hours decreasing to 10.1h, the city prepares for the winter ahead. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November heralds the advent of winter in Helsinki; the city's atmosphere buckles under a distinct chill. Signs of forthcoming snowfall emerge towards the end of the month, picturing a wintery landscape. Daylight reduces to a minimal 7.5h while adequate rainfall creates a cold and damp milieu. Weather in November »
Weather in December
With December, Helsinki embraces the full onset of winter and the festive season. As temperatures dive to the lower side, peaking only at 0.5°C (32.9°F) at their highest, winter coats become a necessity. A significant increase in snowfall amplifying to 120mm (4.72") paints the city in a winter wonderland motif. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 31, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Helsinki?
In Helsinki, during the entire year, the rain falls for 182 days and collects up to 655mm (25.79") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Helsinki?
Months with snowfall in Helsinki are January through March, November and December.
How much does it snow in Helsinki?
In Helsinki, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 740mm (29.13").
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Helsinki?
January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 0, are months with the lowest UV index in Helsinki.
What is the coldest month in Helsinki?
During the coldest month in Helsinki, February, temperatures average a high of -1.9°C (28.6°F) and a low of -7.4°C (18.7°F).
What is the snowiest month in Helsinki?
The month with the most snowfall in Helsinki, Finland, is February, when 230mm (9.06") of snow is typically aggregated.
What months are the sea coldest in Helsinki?
February and March, with an average sea temperature of 1°C (33.8°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Helsinki, Finland.
What is the driest month in Helsinki?
The month with the least rainfall in Helsinki, Finland, is April, when the rain falls for 11 days and typically collects 32mm (1.26") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Helsinki?
In Helsinki, Finland, snow does not fall in April through October.
When are the longest days in Helsinki?
The month with the longest days in Helsinki is June, with an average of 18h and 48min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Helsinki?
With an average of 9.9h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year in Helsinki.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Helsinki?
The months with the highest UV index in Helsinki are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the hottest time of year in Helsinki?
Helsinki's July weather reaches an average high of 21.5°C (70.7°F) and an average low of 14.2°C (57.6°F), making it the warmest month.
What is the wettest month in Helsinki?
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 15 days and typically aggregates up to 80mm (3.15") of precipitation.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Helsinki?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Helsinki, with an average sea temperature of 16°C (60.8°F).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Helsinki?
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 04:00, Daylight Saving Time ends in Helsinki, and the time zone changes from EEST to EET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 03:00, and the time zone reverts from EET to EEST.
What is the month with the shortest days in Helsinki?
December has the shortest days of the year in Helsinki, with an average of 6h and 0min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Helsinki?
With an average of 0.9h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Helsinki.
Average temperature
Helsinki, Finland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (21.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is February (-1.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (14.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-7.4°C).
Average rainfall
Helsinki, Finland
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (80mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (32mm).
Average rainfall days
Helsinki, Finland
- Average rainfall days in January:
19 days - Average rainfall days in February:
17 days - Average rainfall days in March:
15 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
12 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14 days - Average rainfall days in October:
16 days - Average rainfall days in November:
18 days - Average rainfall days in December:
20 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (20 days).
The months with the least rainy days are April and May (11 days).
Average snowfall
Helsinki, Finland
The month with the highest snowfall is February (230mm).
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average sea temperature
Helsinki, Finland
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (16°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are February and March (1°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Helsinki, Finland
- Average daylight in January:
6h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
17h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
18h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
18h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
15h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
7h and 3min - Average daylight in December:
6h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 18h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 6h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
1h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
3h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
1h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 9h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 0h and 54min).
Average UV index
Helsinki, Finland
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 0).
Helsinki, Finland
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