Climate and monthly weather forecastKirkenes, Norway
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Kirkenes
The northernmost city of Norway, Kirkenes, sits bathed by the cold currents of the Barents Sea and experiences a Subarctic climate throughout the year, according to the Köppen climate classification of Dfc. With severe winters characteristic of this climate zone, the weather in Kirkenes oscillates from very cold temperatures in winter, sometimes dipping to as low as -10.8°C (12.6°F), to somewhat mild summer highs of around 14.9°C (58.8°F).Fluctuations in the relative humidity are fairly minimal, with an annual range between a modest 73% during June and a high of 90% in January. Precipitation, in the form of both rainfall and snowfall, is a common occurrence in the area. Rainfall amounts hover around 15mm (0.59") in February, reaching a peak of around 34mm (1.34") in June. On the other hand, snowfall is most prevalent in the harsher months of winter, with December, January, and March each witnessing around 94mm (3.7") of snow.
Visitors to Kirkenes should also be aware of the frequent changes in visibility, which varies within a small range of 8km (5mi) to 10km (6.2mi) throughout the year. Wind speeds also oscillate, with averages reaching from 14.7km/h (9.1mph) in August to 21.2km/h (13.2mph) in March. These weather conditions create a unique blend of cold, wet, and breezy weather that one can expect when visiting Kirkenes.
The best time to visit Kirkenes
Visitors aiming for the warmest conditions should consider planning a trip to Kirkenes from June to August when temperatures reach a high of 14.9°C (58.8°F) and the relative humidity is at its lowest, around 73% to 79%. This period also boasts the highest levels of daylight, with 24 hours in June gradually tapering to 18 hours by August. Furthermore, sunshine during these months peaks at roughly 8.4 hours a day, promising ample time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.The worst time to visit Kirkenes
Travelers who prefer milder weather should avoid visiting Kirkenes during winter. The cold is particularly biting from December to February when temperatures plummet to as low as -10.8°C (12.6°F), combined with humidity levels floating in the high 80s. Moreover, these months witness regular snowfalls, with each month averaging to roughly 90mm (3.54").Spring weather in Kirkenes
Spring, from March to May, sees a gentle warming trend in Kirkenes with month-high temperatures climbing from -3.3°C (26.1°F) in March to 6.2°C (43.2°F) in May. Snow continues to coat the city until April, with 92mm (3.62") of snowfall but diminishes to 48mm (1.89") in May. Notably, daylight hours during this season increase significantly, stretching from 11.7 hours in March to an impressive 22.2 hours in May.Summer weather in Kirkenes
Summertime in Kirkenes lasts from June through August and provides some respite from the year-round chill. Despite being the warmest period of the year, temperatures during summer are still relatively cool by most standards, averaging from 10.5°C (50.9°F) in June to a peak of 14.9°C (58.8°F) in July, and then slightly dropping to 13.6°C (56.5°F) in August. Rainfall also sees a steady climb during these months, particularly in June when it hits 34mm (1.34") before dwindling to 29mm (1.14") in August.Autumn weather in Kirkenes
During the autumnal months of September to November, Kirkenes witnesses a decline in temperatures, descending from 10°C (50°F) in September to an icy -1°C (30.2°F) in November. Precipitation falls within a narrow margin, with rainfall slightly decreasing from 25mm (0.98") in September to 16mm (0.63") in November, while snowfall begins its ascent from 9mm (0.35") in September reaching 61mm (2.4") in November.Winter weather in Kirkenes
Starting from December until February, winter in Kirkenes is severe with temperatures hovering between a high of -3.6°C (25.5°F) and a low of -10.8°C (12.6°F). Against the backdrop of this cold, substantial snowfall blankets the landscape with monthly averages gravitating around 90mm (3.54"). Despite the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, the winter season in Kirkenes has its unique charms, for it is during these long, dark nights when the magical Northern Lights make their appearance.Weather in January
January, serving as the gateway into winter for Kirkenes, Norway, maintains a typical chilly and wet landscape. High humidity of 90%, paired with relatively low visibility of 8km (5mi), often marks the sky with a moody, grey canvas. Weather in January »Weather in February
Diving deeper into winter, February in Kirkenes does not provide much reprieve from January's icy grip. Still, a slight dip in humidity is discernible, coupled with improved visibility up to 9km (5.6mi). As the snowfall decreases to 72mm (2.83"), the frosty landscape becomes less chaotic. Weather in February »Weather in March
Kirkenes begins to shrug off its winter coat as March sets in, offering perceptibly warmer temperatures, up to -3.3°C (26.1°F). As the smoked glass window of winter begins to clear, daylight increases significantly, providing residents with more brightness. Weather in March »Weather in April
April signifies the long-awaited arrival of spring in Kirkenes, as the city begins to thaw out from the predominantly frosty weather. An increased daylight duration signals the retreat of winter, instilling a sense of rejuvenation throughout the landscape. Weather in April »Weather in May
May in Kirkenes embodies the full spirit of spring, characterized by the dual gains of temperature up to 6.2°C (43.2°F) and extended daylight hours. This period provides a sense of renewal, as plants bud and the vestiges of winter snowfall retreat. Weather in May »Weather in June
In June, Kirkenes, Norway revels in the lively hues of summer with temperatures peeking at 10.5°C (50.9°F). This month takes pride in the most generous daylight, dazzling residents with extended sunlit hours. However, June does not back down from occasional rainfall, which adds a refreshing twist to the summer narrative. Weather in June »Weather in July
July serves as the beacon of summer in Kirkenes, with temperatures soaring to a warm 14.9°C (58.8°F). Not just content with long daylight hours, the city basks under a dominant sun unusually low on the horizon. The relatively drier climate regulates the frequency of rainfall, ensuring summer remains largely unchallenged. Weather in July »Weather in August
Winds of change start blowing in August, as Kirkenes transitions from the quintessential summer weather toward autumn. The temperatures start to descend slightly, causing a subtle drop. Nonetheless, the city continues to enjoy substantial daylight and warmth. Weather in August »Weather in September
As September sets in, Kirkenes finds itself basking in the myriad hues of autumn. With temperatures cooling down to 10°C (50°F), the city embraces the seasonal changes with great aplomb. The charm of sunlight is balanced harmoniously with a significant increase in rainfall. Weather in September »Weather in October
October in Kirkenes witnesses a steady transition from autumn to the preliminary stages of winter. The weather alternates between mild and frosty, offering temperatures as low as 0.1°C (32.2°F). The crisper air and the mounting frequency of rainfall strongly hint at the impending arrival of winter. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Kirkenes registers a robust plunge in temperatures, marking the definite onset of winter. As daylight recedes significantly, the city dons a serene and frosty appearance. The snowfall spiked at 61mm (2.4"), transforming the cityscape into a dazzling white expanse. Weather in November »Weather in December
Embracing the quintessential arctic winter, December in Kirkenes, Norway features a steady dive in temperatures, often dipping as low as -7.7°C (18.1°F). The city receives an extended run of polar nights, characterized by an almost continuous absence of daylight. Weather in December »Updated: Jan 26, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
Kirkenes's January weather reaches an average high of -6.3°C (20.7°F) and an average low of -10.8°C (12.6°F), making it the coldest month.
With an average relative humidity of 90%, January is the most humid month in Kirkenes, Norway.
In Kirkenes, during the entire year, the rain falls for 109 days and collects up to 292mm (11.5") of precipitation.
January through June, September through December are months with snowfall.
In Kirkenes, Norway, during the entire year, snow falls for 114.2 days and aggregates up to 652mm (25.67") of snow.
January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index in Kirkenes, Norway.
The month with the least rainfall is February, when the rain falls for 3.6 days and typically collects 15mm (0.59") of precipitation.
With an average relative humidity of 73%, June is the least humid month.
June is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 13.8 days and accumulates 34mm (1.34") of precipitation.
June and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in Kirkenes.
July is the month when Kirkenes, Norway, sees the average highest temperatures, with a high of 14.9°C (58.8°F) and a low of 9.3°C (48.7°F).
In Kirkenes, snow does not fall in July and August.
With an average maximum UV index of 4, July is the month with the highest UV index in Kirkenes, Norway.
With an average of 18h and 6min of daylight, August has the longest days of the year in Kirkenes.
August has the most sunshine of the year in Kirkenes, with an average of 8.4h of sunshine.
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from CEST to CET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from CET to CEST.
The month with the most snowfall in Kirkenes is December, when snow falls for 16.6 days and typically aggregates up to 95mm (3.74") of snow.
The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 0.3h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Kirkenes, Norway
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (14.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (-6.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (9.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-10.8°C).
Average pressure
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average pressure in January:
1007.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1007.7mbar - Average pressure in March:
1004.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1014.4mbar - Average pressure in June:
1011.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1012.1mbar - Average pressure in August:
1011.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1010.2mbar - Average pressure in October:
1009.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1007.1mbar - Average pressure in December:
1002.9mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is May (1014.4mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is December (1002.9mbar).
Average wind speed
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average wind speed in January:
19.6km/h - Average wind speed in February:
19.8km/h - Average wind speed in March:
21.2km/h - Average wind speed in April:
17.5km/h - Average wind speed in May:
16.7km/h - Average wind speed in June:
17.7km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
15.2km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.7km/h - Average wind speed in September:
17.8km/h - Average wind speed in October:
18.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
20.1km/h - Average wind speed in December:
20.1km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (21.2km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (14.7km/h).
Average humidity
Kirkenes, Norway
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (90%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (73%).
Average rainfall
Kirkenes, Norway
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (34mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (15mm).
Average rainfall days
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average rainfall days in January:
3.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
5.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
10.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
4.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (14.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (3.4 days).
Average snowfall
Kirkenes, Norway
The month with the highest snowfall is December (95mm).
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average snowfall days in January:
16.7 days - Average snowfall days in February:
14.1 days - Average snowfall days in March:
15.6 days - Average snowfall days in April:
16.6 days - Average snowfall days in May:
8.8 days - Average snowfall days in June:
1.4 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in September:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in October:
10.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
12.8 days - Average snowfall days in December:
16.6 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (16.7 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is August (0.1 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average daylight in January:
1h and 42min - Average daylight in February:
7h and 18min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 42min - Average daylight in April:
16h and 12min - Average daylight in May:
11h and 18min - Average daylight in June:
0h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
4h and 18min - Average daylight in August:
18h and 6min - Average daylight in September:
13h and 18min - Average daylight in October:
9h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
3h and 36min - Average daylight in December:
0h and 0min
The month with the longest days is August (Average daylight: 18h and 6min).
The months with the shortest days are June and December (Average daylight: 0h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
0h and 54min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 24min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 36min - Average sunshine in May:
3h and 24min - Average sunshine in June:
0h and 24min
- Average sunshine in July:
1h and 42min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 24min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in October:
3h and 48min - Average sunshine in November:
1h and 54min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 8h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 0h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Kirkenes, Norway
- Average sunshine days in January:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
10.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
7.1 days - Average sunshine days in May:
10.9 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
12 days - Average sunshine days in October:
11.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
12.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.1 days
The months with the most sunshine days are January, July and August (12.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (7.1 days).
Average UV index
Kirkenes, Norway
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, November and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Kirkenes, Norway
The month with the most cloud cover is April (Cloud cover 70).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 54).
Average visibility
Kirkenes, Norway
The months with the highest visibility are June, July and August (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and April (8km).
