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Contents
- The climate of Qaanaaq
- The best time to visit Qaanaaq
- The worst time to visit Qaanaaq
- Spring weather in Qaanaaq
- Summer weather in Qaanaaq
- Autumn weather in Qaanaaq
- Winter weather in Qaanaaq
- 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 humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The climate of Qaanaaq
In the northernmost territory of Greenland resides the town of Qaanaaq, nestled into a windswept tundra according to the Köppen climate classification. This settlement experiences typically ET, or Tundra, identified by having short, cool summers and long, extremely cold winters. Here, the annual variation in temperature swings from an icy -28.4°C (-19.1°F) in February to a modest 7.4°C (45.3°F) in July.
Throughout the year, the humidity remains relatively stable, fluctuating slightly between a low of 62% in April to a high of 72% in August. As for rainfall, the variation is more noticeable. Summer months bring more rain with July and August reaching up to 24mm (0.94"), in contrast to a plunge down to 4mm (0.16") in March. These conditions, accompanied by daylight hours ranging from non-existence in December and January to a plentiful 24 hours during June and July create a weather tapestry unique to Qaanaaq.
Of particular note are the sea temperatures, which hover between -2°C (28.4°F) and 2°C (35.6°F) across the year, intensifying the town's cool climate feel. When combined with the limited sunshine hours which peak at 10.2 hours in May and dropdown to zero by December, a stark image of Qaanaaq's climate emerges.
Throughout the year, the humidity remains relatively stable, fluctuating slightly between a low of 62% in April to a high of 72% in August. As for rainfall, the variation is more noticeable. Summer months bring more rain with July and August reaching up to 24mm (0.94"), in contrast to a plunge down to 4mm (0.16") in March. These conditions, accompanied by daylight hours ranging from non-existence in December and January to a plentiful 24 hours during June and July create a weather tapestry unique to Qaanaaq.
Of particular note are the sea temperatures, which hover between -2°C (28.4°F) and 2°C (35.6°F) across the year, intensifying the town's cool climate feel. When combined with the limited sunshine hours which peak at 10.2 hours in May and dropdown to zero by December, a stark image of Qaanaaq's climate emerges.
The best time to visit Qaanaaq
Exploring Qaanaaq reveals the best period between May and July. This span features the highest average temperatures, climbing up to 4.2°C (39.6°F), which is warm by local standards. The town also offers the maximum daylight, rewarding visitors with nearly 24 hours of light in June and July. Coupled with a consistent rainfall of about 16mm (0.63") in June, resulting in refreshing landscapes, these months provide the most enjoyable weather conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
The worst time to visit Qaanaaq
The period from December to February is considered the most challenging time to visit Qaanaaq. During these months, the average temperatures stoop low, sinking to a chilling -28.4°C (-19.1°F) in February. Concurrently, daylight is virtually absent with zero daylight hours in December and January. The gloom is further emphasized by a lack of sunshine hours, which also drop to zero during these months. Therefore, visitors might find these conditions severely restrictive for travel.
Spring weather in Qaanaaq
Spring in Qaanaaq, from March to May, observes a gradual warming trend, albeit the climb in temperatures is still icy going from -20.1°C (-4.2°F) to -2.6°C (27.3°F). The rainfall makes a modest increase, rising from 4mm (0.16") to 7mm (0.28") during the same period. The period also witnesses a dramatic leap in daylight, ramping up from 11.6 hours in March to a full 24 hours in May. Notably, sunshine hours amplify nearly twofold from 4.8 hours to 10.2 hours. The UV index, however, remains mild at 1 to 2, making the spring in Qaanaaq unique.
Summer weather in Qaanaaq
June through August mark the summer in Qaanaaq. While the warmth modestly peaks at 7.4°C (45.3°F), summer delivers an abundance of daylight, providing visitors with a full 24 hours of daylight in June and July. Rainfall during summer is greater than at any other time of the year, reaching a climax of 24mm (0.94") in August. The UV index shows a moderate increase to 3, while sunshine hours reduce slightly to 8.7 in July from 10.2 in May.
Autumn weather in Qaanaaq
Autumn, extending from September to November, heralds a sharp drop in temperatures from 0.6°C (33.1°F) down to -12.9°C (8.8°F). Rainfall also declines to around half of the summer levels, going from 18mm (0.71") in September to 10mm (0.39") by November. Daylight hours diminish rapidly, plummeting from 14.2 in September to a scarce zero in November. The fall in sunshine hours is even sharper, from 5.2 hours in September to none in November, indicating the swift transition towards the long Arctic winter.
Winter weather in Qaanaaq
Winter in Qaanaaq is characterized by extreme cold and constant darkness. Temperatures plunge drastically from -12.9°C (8.8°F) in November to an icy -28.4°C (-19.1°F) in February. Rainfall is relatively less, ranging from 10mm (0.39") in December to just 6mm (0.24") by February. As if the freezing temperatures were not enough, the sun remains below the horizon from December until late January, casting the town into complete darkness 24 hours a day. At this time of the year, Qaanaaq truly becomes a witness to Arctic's stark winter.
Weather in January
January ranks as the coldest month of the year in Qaanaaq, Greenland with the temperature dipping to -27°C (-16.6°F). The chilly atmosphere is accompanied by a skimpy daylight duration of two hours. The month's bone-chilling temperature leads to hard-frozen sea and snow-covered landscapes. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In February, the average temperature in Qaanaaq sinks a bit further to -28.4°C (-19.1°F), making it colder than January. However, the city starts to see a slow increase in daylight hours, nearly tripling from the previous month to 2.9 hours. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Entering March, the temperature in Qaanaaq rises slightly to -27.8°C (-18°F), but cold conditions still dominate the city. Daylight hours stretch significantly to 11.6 hours signifying the advent of spring. The city experiences less rainfall compared to February, hinting at drier conditions despite the winter season. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April sees a substantial rise in temperatures, increasing to -12.8°C (9°F), signaling the retreat of intense chill. The city experiences an increase in daylight hours to 20.4, allowing the inhabitants to enjoy a significant amount of time outdoors. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May marks the dawn of a milder weather phase in Qaanaaq with the mercury hitting -2.6°C (27.3°F). The temperature climb is accompanied by a full 24 hours of daylight infusing life back into the city after a prolonged winter. The weather still remains cool in nature, implying the lowly melting of snow. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in the summer season with the temperature rising to 4.2°C (39.6°F). The city is bathed in constant sunlight for a whole day, energizing the city's life. The distinct increase in temperature and sunshine marks longer daytime and warmer nights. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in Qaanaaq as temperatures reach 7.4°C (45.3°F). Everyday life flourishes under 24 hours of daylight, promoting exploration from morning till night. The noticeable uptick in humidity to 71% enhances the moist feeling in the air. Weather in July »
Weather in August
The temperature in Qaanaaq in August slightly falls to 6.2°C (43.2°F), indicating the waning summer. Daylight hours start to reduce, dipping to 22.8 hours but still offering ample time to spend outside. The abundance of weather activities such as rain and sunshine forms a unique weather blend. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September witnesses a stark drop in temperatures to 0.6°C (33.1°F), indicating the arrival of colder months. The city retreats to shorter daylight hours, reducing to 14.2 hours. September observes an increase in rainfall to 18mm (0.71"), hinting towards a damp and cold environment. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Qaanaaq is characterized by further decline in temperature to -6.7°C (19.9°F), intensifying the chilly climate. The daily light hours decrease to 6.1 hours signifying fewer opportunities for outdoor activities. The city braces itself for the upcoming rigid winter as the weather turns frostier. Weather in October »
Weather in November
With the arrival of November, winter is fully instated in Qaanaaq. The temperature plummets to -12.9°C (8.8°F), amplifying the winter chill in the city. The daylight duration reduces to nil implying a long Arctic night throughout the city. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December continues the harsh winter weather in Qaanaaq with temperatures dropping to -17.8°C (-0°F). The city remains plunged in darkness for 24 hours due to persistent Polar nights. Despite the cold wave, Qaanaaq vibrantly celebrates Christmas with stunning displays of festive lights. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in Qaanaaq?
Throughout the year, in Qaanaaq, there are 31 rainfall days, and 124mm (4.88") of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the sea coldest in Qaanaaq?
January through April and December, with an average sea temperature of -2°C (28.4°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Qaanaaq, Greenland.
What is the month with the shortest days in Qaanaaq?
January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in Qaanaaq, Greenland.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Qaanaaq?
The months with the least sunshine in Qaanaaq, Greenland, are January, November and December, with an average of 0h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Qaanaaq?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 0.
What part of the year is the coldest in Qaanaaq?
With its average high temperature of -20.6°C (-5.1°F) and a low of -28.4°C (-19.1°F), February is regarded as the coldest month.
What is the driest month in Qaanaaq?
The month with the least rainfall in Qaanaaq is March, when the rain falls for 1 days and typically collects 4mm (0.16") of precipitation.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Qaanaaq?
On Sunday, 10. March 2024, at 02:00, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from AST to ADT. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 03. November 2024, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from ADT to AST.
What is the least humid month in Qaanaaq?
With an average relative humidity of 62%, April is the least humid month in Qaanaaq.
What month has the most sunshine in Qaanaaq?
May has the most sunshine of the year in Qaanaaq, with an average of 10.2h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Qaanaaq?
The months with the highest UV index in Qaanaaq, Greenland, are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 3.
What part of the year is the hottest in Qaanaaq?
In Qaanaaq, July is the warmest month, with temperatures averaging a high of 7.4°C (45.3°F) and a low of 2.1°C (35.8°F).
What is the most humid month in Qaanaaq?
The most humid month is August, with an average relative humidity of 72%.
What is the wettest month in Qaanaaq?
August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 4 days and accumulates 24mm (0.94") of precipitation.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Qaanaaq?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Qaanaaq, Greenland, with an average sea temperature of 2°C (35.6°F).
When are the longest days in Qaanaaq?
The month with the longest days is September, with an average of 14h and 12min of daylight.
Average temperature
Qaanaaq, Greenland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (7.4°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is February (-20.6°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (2.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-28.4°C).
Average humidity
Qaanaaq, Greenland
The month with the highest relative humidity is August (72%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (62%).
Average rainfall
Qaanaaq, Greenland
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (24mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (4mm).
Average rainfall days
Qaanaaq, Greenland
- Average rainfall days in January:
2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2 days
The months with the highest number of rainy days are July, August and September (4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is March (1 days).
Average sea temperature
Qaanaaq, Greenland
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (2°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are January, February, March, April and December (-2°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Qaanaaq, Greenland
- Average daylight in January:
0h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
2h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - 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:
6h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
6h and 1min - 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 12min).
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 2min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
1h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
0h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 10h and 12min).
The months with the least sunshine are January, November and December (Average sunshine: 0h and 0min).
Average UV index
Qaanaaq, Greenland
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 3).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, October, November and December (UV index 0).
Qaanaaq, Greenland
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