Climate and monthly weather forecast
Greenland

Located in the northern hemisphere, Greenland is the world's largest island that is not a continent. This vast landmass predominantly has a polar climate, divided into two major categories, tundra and ice cap, with significant variations between the coast and the inland regions. Throughout the year, Greenland experiences a unique blend of weather conditions, primarily marked by short, cool summers and long, moderately cold winters. Even in the warmest month, temperatures along the coast, influenced by the tundra climate, may only just exceed the freezing point, ranging from 0°C to 10°C. The ice cap climate in the interior, however, keeps temperatures below freezing all year round, underscoring the stark contrast within the country.

The ideal time to visit Greenland greatly depends on what activities one is interested in. For those who appreciate milder weather, the summer months from June to August provide the most accommodating conditions. The temperature during this period typically hovers between 5°C and 10°C. It's the season when the sun barely sets, offering the magical phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, particularly in the northern parts. Summer also presents the opportunity to explore the beautiful flora and fauna of Greenland, including humpback whales in Disko Bay and the vast expanses of Arctic flowers carpeting the landscape.

If constant cold and extreme weather conditions are challenging, it would be advisable to avoid Greenland during the heart of winter, specifically from December to February. During this period, temperatures can drop below -20°C, especially in the interior ice cap areas. The country also experiences very limited daylight hours, with the sun barely peaking over the horizon in the south, and complete darkness in the north, known as Polar Night. While this might provide a unique experience, the harsh weather conditions might be off-putting for some visitors.

In Greenland, spring typically starts in April and lasts until June. During this time, the temperature ranges from -10°C to 3°C. It's a transition period where daylight hours rapidly increase, leading to significant changes in the landscape. As temperatures rise slowly, the thick snow begins to melt, gradually transforming the terrain. It is an ideal period for dog sledding, particularly in April, while iceberg and wildlife sightings increase towards the end of spring.

Greenland’s summer extends from June to August, bringing the mildest temperatures of the year. Ranging from 5°C to 10°C, it provides the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The sunlight lasts almost around the clock, particularly in the northern regions. The ample sunshine helps to clear sea-ice along the coast, making it possible for cruise ships to operate.

From September to November, Greenland experiences autumn. Temperatures start to drop, moving from an average of 5°C in early September to -10°C in November. As autumn progresses, daylight hours rapidly decrease, signaling the approach of the long Polar Night. Autumn is a good time to see the Northern Lights, as the skies darken and clear weather conditions prevail.

Greenland's winter season spans December to March, with average temperatures plunging well below freezing, from -8°C along the coast to beyond -20°C in the interior. The country experiences limited sunlight during winter, with a few hours of twilight in the south and perpetual darkness, the Polar Night, in the north. Despite the harsh conditions, winter

In Greenland, January typically presents the coldest conditions, marking the peak of the Arctic winter. The coastal areas, influenced by a milder tundra climate and the moderating effect of the surrounding seas, have average temperatures ranging from -8°C to -12°C. Weather in January »

As winter continues in Greenland, February presents an environment somewhat similar to January, though with a few subtle changes. The average temperature across the country remains frigid but shows a slight upward trend as the month progresses. Weather in February »

As Greenland transitions from the depths of winter towards spring, March brings about a noticeable change in the country's weather patterns. Throughout the month, the average temperatures continue their slow but steady ascent, typically ranging between -8°C and -5°C in coastal regions. Weather in March »

In Greenland, April signifies the arrival of spring, which brings about substantial transformations in the landscape and climate. While the country remains considerably cold, temperatures in coastal areas experience an upward trend, averaging between -4°C and 1°C. Weather in April »

May in Greenland marks a significant shift towards warmer conditions and extended daylight hours. Along the coast, the average temperatures typically fluctuate between 1°C and 6°C, offering a much-needed reprieve from the long, harsh winter. Weather in May »

June signifies the onset of summer in Greenland, bringing about significant changes in weather conditions across the country. Coastal regions experience temperatures typically ranging between 5°C and 10°C, marking the year's warmest period. Weather in June »

July is typically the warmest month in Greenland, marking the height of the brief Arctic summer. Coastal regions experience the year's highest temperatures, averaging between 10°C and 15°C. Despite this relative warmth, the inland ice cap areas retain their chill, with average temperatures lingering around -2°C. In the capital city, Nuuk, July sees average temperatures of 10°C, providing a marked contrast to the freezing conditions experienced in the long winter months. Weather in July »

August in Greenland signals the gradual transition from summer to autumn. While the coastal regions still enjoy relatively warm temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 14°C, the mercury begins its steady descent as the month progresses. Weather in August »

September in Greenland signifies the arrival of autumn, with temperatures across the country beginning to descend more sharply. The coastal regions typically experience temperatures fluctuating between 3°C and 8°C, while the inland ice cap regions brace for the encroaching winter with temperatures frequently falling below -10°C. In Nuuk, average temperatures hover around 5°C in September. Weather in September »

October in Greenland signifies the continuation of autumn and the steady approach of winter. Coastal areas experience temperatures typically ranging between -1°C and 3°C, while the inland ice cap regions start to brace themselves for the intense winter cold, with average temperatures plunging to -20°C. In the capital city, Nuuk, October sees temperatures hovering around 1°C. Weather in October »

November in Greenland marks the onset of the long, dark polar winter. In coastal regions, average temperatures plummet, typically ranging between -5°C and -1°C. The inland ice cap regions face even more severe cold, with temperatures commonly falling to -25°C or lower. In Nuuk, November sees the city cloaked in winter's chill, with average temperatures hovering around -2°C. Weather in November »

December in Greenland represents the depths of the Arctic winter. Along the coastal regions, temperatures typically range between -6°C and -2°C. However, the inland ice cap areas face much harsher conditions, with average temperatures often plummeting to -30°C. In the capital city, Nuuk, December experiences an average temperature of about -4°C. Weather in December »