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 18.7°F in
February, trailing up to a peak of 70.7°F typically in
July. The run of minimum temperatures holds true to a similar pattern, descending to 20.3°F in
January and ambling to 57.6°F in July. As for precipitation, this northern metropolis sees increased amounts in the warmer months, peaking from 2.48" in July to 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 5.51" in
March to 9.06" in February. Sea temperatures remain in a rather cold range throughout the year, pinpointing lowest at 33.8°F from January to March and hitting high at a cool 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 70.7°F high in
July and 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 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 29.7°F and 23.9°F in
December, but the city also faces heavy snowfall with measurements spiking up to 8.27" in
January. The icy Baltic Sea also remains at its coldest, oscillating from 33.8°F to 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 28.6°F in
February, temperatures journey to a pleasant 45.7°F high by
April with lows from 18.7°F to 33.4°F. As one transitions from winter to spring, snowfall decreases from 9.06" in February to null in April. Rainfall inches up from 1.42" to 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 70.7°F. The minimum temperatures navigate from a cooler 43.3°F in
May to a comfortable 57.6°F in July. Rainfall during summer observes fluctuations between 1.46" to 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 67.6°F in
September to a chilly 32.9°F in
December, while the lows take a plunge from 55.6°F to 23.9°F. Rainfall spikes from September’s 2.2" to
November’s 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 29.7°F in
December and
January, while the minimum temperatures drop to 20.3°F. Heavy snowfall often characterizes winter, ranging from 1.57" in
November to 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 20.3°F, while the chilliest days see a high of 29.7°F. Snowfall is a frequent companion with 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 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 34.9°F. The advent of spring results in less frequent snowfall, tallying at 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 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 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 70.7°F. The sea temperatures peak at 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 67.6°F ensures a continued warm ambiance. The highest figure of 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 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 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 32.9°F at their highest, winter coats become a necessity. A significant increase in snowfall amplifying to 4.72" paints the city in a winter wonderland motif.
Weather in December »