The climate of Riga
Situated at the heart of
Latvia,
Riga subscribes to the Dfb Köppen climate classification. Illustrating a Humid Continental climate, Riga's weather oscillates between no dry season and a warm summer.
An overview of the climate data reveals an amalgamation of different weather parameters throughout the year. Temperatures exhibit a broad spectrum, extending from chilling lows of -4.8°C (23.4°F) in the early parts of the year to pleasant heights of 22.4°C (72.3°F) in the peak of summer. Humidity levels typically linger around 72% to 90%, fostering a dewy atmosphere most times of the year.
Rainfall figures are noteworthy, spiking around the month of
July with 47mm (1.85") of precipitation over an estimated span of 16 days. The months of
November and
December, on the other hand, record the lowest rainfall amounting to 23mm (0.91"). Snowfall is significant during the cold months, peaking in
January at 84mm (3.31"). Additionally, wind speeds predominantly range from 13.1km/h (8.1mph) to 18.9km/h (11.7mph), contributing to Riga's breezy ambiance.
It's worth highlighting that while most cities experience a particular season of drought, Riga, interestingly, doesn't have a dry season. The climate is consistently humid, sustaining a healthy balance of precipitation all year round.
The best time to visit Riga
Considering
Riga's unique blend of climate characteristics, the most amicable period to visit would arguably be
June through
August. These months are characterized by warm temperatures ascending to a comfortable 22.4°C (72.3°F), coupled with an impressive sea temperature of 16°C (60.8°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). Notably, this period also records the highest daylight hours, further enhancing tourist experiences. It also accounts for the most abundance of sunshine, ranging from 10.9 hours to 11 hours. The relative pressure and visibility conditions during this period are relatively stable, ensuring undeterred explorations.
The worst time to visit Riga
Contrarily, the coldest months from
December to
February are considered less favourable for visiting
Riga. Characterized by freezing temperatures dwelling in the negatives, this period records maximum snowfall amounts up to 84mm (3.31") in
January. It's also the time of the year with the least daylight, barely seven hours, along with meager sunshine accounting for two to three hours per day. Sea temperatures hover around 1°C (33.8°F) to 2°C (35.6°F), making water-based activities less inviting.
Spring weather in Riga
Spring in
Riga unfolds from
March to
May. Wakeful springs are characterized by gradually elevating temperatures, commencing from -1.8°C (28.8°F) in March and climbing up to 15.4°C (59.7°F) by May. Rainfall generally fluctuates between 19mm (0.75") to 29mm (1.14") across these months. A gradual transition can be observed in snowfall, which diminishes from 61mm (2.4") in March to nil in May.
Summer weather in Riga
Summers in
Riga extend from
June to
August, characterized by the highest temperatures of the year hovering between 19.3°C (66.7°F) to 22.4°C (72.3°F). Rainfall shows an upward trend, escalating from 43mm (1.69") in June to 47mm (1.85") by
July. The season also highlights longer daylight hours, extending from 16.5 hours in June to 17.1 hours in July.
Autumn weather in Riga
Autumn paints
Riga's climate from
September to
November. During these months, temperatures steadily decrease from 16.8°C (62.2°F) in September to 5.5°C (41.9°F) in November. Rainfall experiences a downward trend, receding from 42mm (1.65") in
October to 32mm (1.26") by November.
Winter weather in Riga
Residing in the heart of a Humid Continental climate, winters in
Riga are comparatively harsh. From
December to
February, temperatures freeze down to -1.3°C (29.7°F) to -4.8°C (23.4°F). and the presence of snow is significant, with measurements ranging from 70mm (2.76") to 84mm (3.31"). The daylight hours also recede to their lowest, encapsulating between 6.9 hours to 7.5 hours in these months.
Weather in January
In
Riga,
Latvia,
January begins the new year with a chill, blanketing the city with snow and sending residents indoors. Cold and crisp, January sees temperatures consistently drop below freezing. Along with the cold comes an increase in humidity, which brings with it frequent periods of snowfall.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
Riga transitions from
January to
February, the weather remains relatively similar. Cold temperatures and snow persist. However, there is a slight decrease in both snowfall as well as the intensity of the wind. With the city dusted with 73mm (2.87") of snow, February presents another opportunity to participate in winter activities enjoyed by locals.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Come
March,
Riga bids a slow farewell to winter as temperatures start to increase, rendering the landscape a mixture of winter remnants and spring beginnings. The snow starts to melt, replaced with light rain showers. Snowfall decreases dramatically to 61mm (2.4"), signaling the oncoming spring season.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers in the much-awaited spring season in
Riga. It brings about a significant change in the weather, as freezing temperatures make way for a milder climate. The influx of spring does not imply that Riga loses its rain showers, but snow gives way to just about 10mm (0.39").
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Riga can be best described as the middle ground between spring and summer. Weather patterns follow a consistently warming trend, getting noticeably warmer and sunnier. The city experiences a transition from rain showers to sun showers, but remains the wettest month with 29mm (1.14") of rainfall.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the official start of summer in
Riga, characterized by warmth, long days, and increased sun hours. Rainfall shifts from the equable spring rains to sporadic summer thunderstorms. Residents trade their coats for summer attire as the mercury rises.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Riga is the pinnacle of the summer season, welcoming the warmest climatic conditions of the year. Temperatures peak, and rainfall decreases slightly, giving individuals ample opportunity to bask in the summer glory. The rainfall is most at 47mm (1.85"), a shift from previous patterns but still maintaining a summery outlook.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As summer rolls into its final month,
August in
Riga sustains the warmth and conviviality of the season. The weather remains warm but hints towards an imminent change by month end. Despite a slight decrease in rainfall to 44mm (1.73"), it retains a mix of sunny and rainy days.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a marked shift in
Riga's weather, serving as an annunciator of the upcoming autumn season. The city's vegetation takes on hues of orange and red, replacing the greens of summer. With a decrease to 32mm (1.26") of rain, the balance between wet and dry days marks an optimal time for excursions.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October plummets the city of
Riga deeper into the fall season. It's a month of transition, offering a blend of crisp autumn air and chilly winds. Rainfall remains relatively stable at 42mm (1.65"), providing moisture for the colorful fall leaves.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Riga is synonymous with the ushering in of the long, cold winter. The transition is stark, with temperatures plummeting, rain turning to snow, and daylight hours becoming increasingly shorter. A dusting of 22mm (0.87") of snow signals the beginning of the white winter transformation.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings in full-fledged winter weather in
Riga. The month is marked by freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and festive cheer. The city witnesses a notable increase in snowfall, receiving up to 70mm (2.76") of snow. Creatively adorned and illuminated for the holiday season, Riga in December is charming and attractive, embodying the spirit of the winter season amidst life's daily rhythms.
Weather in December »