The climate of Harstad
Situated in the subarctic zone,
Harstad,
Norway, conforms to the Dfc Köppen climate classification. Typical of this climate category, Harstad exhibits a severe winter, no dry season and a cool summer. The climate of Harstad can be characterized by significant temperature fluctuations over the year. From
January to
December, there is a monthly variation in the highest average temperature from -1.2°C (29.8°F) to 14.1°C (57.4°F) and the lowest average temperature from -4.5°C (23.9°F) to 9.9°C (49.8°F).
Remarkably consistent relative humidity levels range from 77% to 83% across the year, while significant rainfall occurs all the year round, from 53mm (2.09") to 95mm (3.74") per month. Not only does the town experience rainfall, but snowfall too is a common occurrence, with average amounts varying from 4mm (0.16") in
June to a peak level of 417mm (16.42") in
March.
The length of daylight hours flexes considerably, from a low of 0.1 hours in December to a high of 24 hours in June, whilst the hours of sunshine each day range from 0.3 hours in December to 6.5 hours in
September. Wind speeds fluctuate from 11.1km/h (6.9mph) to 19.3km/h (12mph).
Conforming to its subarctic classification, Harstad displays less contrast in some weather parameters, including sea temperature, visibility and cloud cover, across the year, whilst eliciting distinctive patterns in others, such as in daylight hours and snowfall levels.
The best time to visit Harstad
Considering the weather conditions and climate parameters, summer, from
June to
August, emerges as the most favorable time to visit
Harstad. During these months, temperatures reach their yearly peaks, averaging between 10.2°C (50.4°F) and 14.1°C (57.4°F), making the weather pleasant and conducive for exploration. Furthermore, June sees the highest average daylight hours, a unique phenomenon commonly known as the "Midnight Sun", which offers visitors unprecedented opportunities for sightseeing. Despite an increased likelihood of rainfall, the summer months offer the best combination of conditions to fully experience the picturesque landscapes and outdoorsy lifestyles of Harstad.
The worst time to visit Harstad
Unsurprisingly, winter proves statistically to be the least propitious time to visit
Harstad. Lasting between
December and
February, winter in Harstad is characterized by subzero temperatures, short daylight hours, and significant snowfall. The highest average temperatures during this time plummet to minus figures, from -1.2°C (29.8°F) in December to -1°C (30.2°F) in February. With a remarkable escalation in snowfall, reaching a peak level of 417mm (16.42") in
March, alongside a reduction in daylight hours to as low as 0.1 hours in December, winter provides a harsh and inhospitable environment to all but the hardiest of visitors.
Spring weather in Harstad
Spring, though a transitional period between the severe winter and the relatively warm summer, exhibits considerable variability in weather conditions. From
March to
May,
Harstad witnesses a gradual rise in temperature, from -0.2°C (31.6°F) up to 6.4°C (43.5°F), alongside a decrease in snowfall. March experiences the highest snowfall at a substantial 417mm (16.42"), which steadily reduces to less significant levels of 128mm (5.04") by May. Despite a decrease in snow, rainfall does rise from 95mm (3.74") in March to 70mm (2.76") in May, with the frequency of rainy days peaking at 14.6 days by May.
Summer weather in Harstad
Harstad's summer, from
June to
August, is characterized by a pleasant climate with the highest temperatures of the year. These months see temperatures ranging from 10.2°C (50.4°F) to 14.1°C (57.4°F). Additional benefits of summer include the least wind speed of the year, ranging from 11.1km/h (6.9mph) to 13km/h (8.1mph), and a glaring daylight timeframe. June stands out with a full 24 hours of daylight, a spectacular phenomenon that gradually descends to 17.7 hours of daylight by August.
Autumn weather in Harstad
Fall or autumn in
Harstad marks another long transitional period, encompassing
September to
November. During this time, weather parameters reveal a steady decrease in temperatures from 10.9°C (51.6°F) to 3°C (37.4°F) and an increase in rainfall from 65mm (2.56") to 73mm (2.87"). The frequency of rainy days also goes up, from 17.5 days in September to 16.2 days in November.
Winter weather in Harstad
Harstad suffers from a severe winter, lasting from
December through
February, confirmed by the sub-zero temperatures, significant snowfall, and minimal daylight hours. Average highest temperatures over these months persistently dip below zero, from -1°C (30.2°F) in December to -1.2°C (29.8°F) in
January. Snowfall is at its height, reaching a high point of 417mm (16.42") in
March, and daylight hours hit their lowest level, dropping to just 0.1 hours in December. All these factors contribute to the extreme winter weather conditions in Harstad.
Weather in January
Harstad,
Norway experiences a cold start to the year, marked by a powerful wind persisting on average around 18.7km/h (11.6mph). The city is primarily enveloped in frost due to frequent snowfall, creating a distinct winter ambiance.
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
February, nature blankets
Harstad in a beautiful snowy scenery, often coupled with a chilling wind. The month usually holds a promising 9km (5.6mi) of visibility, presenting a crystal clear view of the winter landscape. February shares a similar weather pattern with its predecessor, though it claims a notable soaring of snowfall to 278mm (10.94").
Weather in February »Weather in March
Though
March brings longer days and a rise in temperature, it also witnesses an all-time high of 417mm (16.42") in snowfall.
Harstad's snow-dressed days of March gradually transition into a mixture of snow and rain towards the end of the month.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers in a distinct shift in
Harstad's weather with increasing daylight hours. Snow is slowly replaced by rain, indicating the onset of the rainy season. This transition is marked by a decrease in snowfall to 250mm (9.84"), allowing the city’s wide range of wild spring flowers to flourish in the increased sunlight.
Weather in April » Weather in May
With the arrival of
May, a rise in temperature and drop in snowfall signal the beginning of warmer days in
Harstad. The intensity of the prevalent northeastern wind commences to decline, enhancing the overall pleasantness of the weather.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June appears to be summer's debut in
Harstad, marked by pleasant temperatures, prolonged daylight hours, and significantly less snowfall, appearing only in 0.7 snowfall days. The locals soak up the warmth, spending quality time outdoors and relishing the rare sunny weather.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July delivers peak summer weather in
Harstad, offering an average temperature of 14.1°C (57.4°F), the highest in the year. The sea too experiences a seasonal upturn, hitting a comfortable 12°C (53.6°F). A rise in daylight hours instigates a series of outdoor activities, alongside cultural events held in the city.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August witnesses a slight decline in temperature, making way for a more refreshing and vibrant weather in
Harstad. Rainfall slightly increases, keeping the city's vegetation lush and green. This climatic fluctuation is further highlighted by a slight increase in wind speeds to 11.6km/h (7.2mph).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings the beginning of autumn to
Harstad, with a further dip in average temperature to 10.9°C (51.6°F). The autumn equinox ensures a balanced distribution of day and night, accounting for equal periods of sunlight and darkness.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
The arrival of
October in
Harstad is followed by a significant drop in temperature to average lows of 3.6°C (38.5°F) and a steep rise in snow to 110mm (4.33"). The city wears a deserted appearance as the sharp air keeps the locals indoors.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November transforms
Harstad into a winter wonderland, with snow falling abundantly to a total of 172mm (6.77"). The once colorful city dresses in shades of white, and short daylight hours contribute to the winter feel. The onset of winter is accompanied by a stark drop in temperature, increasing the demand for hot beverages.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings the year to a frosty close in
Harstad, demonstrating peak winter conditions with the lowest sea temperatures reaching 6.4°C (43.5°F). Snowfall peaks to 301mm (11.85") adding an extra touch to the city's Christmas ambiance.
Weather in December »