Climate and monthly weather forecastKristiansand, Norway
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Kristiansand
Kristiansand, a city in Norway, possesses a Cfb climate classification according to Köppen. This generally correlates to a marine west coast climate, distinguished by warm summers. The city's placement along the coastline in Southern Norway significantly influences its entire weather profile.A thorough overview of Kristiansand's climate throughout the year reveals a trend of moderately cold temperatures, noticeable precipitation, and distinct snowfall patterns. Temperature fluctuates annually, with the highest and lowest averages reaching 20.1°C (68.2°F) in July and dropping as low as -5.1°C (22.8°F) in February. Meanwhile, rainfall happens consistently throughout the year without significant deviation, varying from 59mm (2.32") in April to 164mm (6.46") in October and November. Intriguingly, the city experiences snowfall primarily from December to February and sporadically in November.
The sunshine hours also vary across the year, reaching a peak of 8 hours in June and July and dipping as low as an hour per day in December and January. Sea temperatures, while not directly impacting most visitors, follow a typical pattern: They peak at 17.7°C (63.9°F) in August before diminishing to 4.3°C (39.7°F) in March.
The best time to visit Kristiansand
From the climate perspective, the optimum time to visit Kristiansand is in the summer, specifically between June and August. During these months, the city enjoys its warmest temperatures, hovering between 14.3°C (57.7°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). Maximum daylight hours, reaching up to 18.1 in June, along with high sea temperatures make these months ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. The highest UV index of 5 during this period enhances the overall appeal for experiencing natural sunlight. However, visitors may want to carry an umbrella during these months since weather conditions indicate an occurrence of rainfall ranging from 75mm (2.95") to 88mm (3.46").The worst time to visit Kristiansand
In contrast, the period between December and February can be challenging for travelers due to harsh winter conditions. The temperatures during these months drop to a chilling -4.8°C (23.4°F) to 3°C (37.4°F), making it not only the coldest but also the least inviting time of the year. The daylight hours also fall significantly, reaching a low of 6.6 hours in December, which restricts outdoor activities. The noticeable snowfall during these months, with up to 150mm (5.91") in December and January might make travel difficult.Spring weather in Kristiansand
In Kristiansand, spring displays a gradual transition from the cold winter. The period stretching from March to May showcases mildly increasing temperatures, ranging from 4.4°C (39.9°F) to 14.3°C (57.7°F). Rainfall patterns remain relatively consistent, with precipitation measuring between 59mm (2.32") to 86mm (3.39"). The snowfall ceases completely by April, allowing outdoor pursuits to resume comfortably. As days become longer, sunshine hours also noticeably increase from 3 to 7 hours per day during this period.Summer weather in Kristiansand
Summer in Kristiansand is epitomized by the warm and comfortable weather conditions. June to August marks the warmest period with temperatures ranging from 14.3°C (57.7°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). While there is a fair amount of rain between 75mm (2.95") to 88mm (3.46"), the ample sunshine of 7-8 hours per day offsets the damp conditions. Moreover, the daylight hours peak during this period, providing long, sunny days to enjoy outdoor activities.Autumn weather in Kristiansand
Autumn weather in Kristiansand, from September to November, ushers with noticeable changes in weather parameters. Temperatures progressively decrease from 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 6.2°C (43.2°F) and rainfall peaks during these months, reaching highest volumetric input - 164mm (6.46") in October and November. Even though the sunshine duration falls drastically from 4 hours to 2 hours per day, the receding daylight hours present a beautiful display of autumn foliage.Winter weather in Kristiansand
The winter in Kristiansand spans from December to February, characterized by icy temperatures and substantial snowfall. The temperature drops significantly, ranging from -4.8°C (23.4°F) in January to 3°C (37.4°F) in December. The city experiences the highest snowfall between 150mm (5.91") in December and February, with little to no snow in the rest of the year. Despite the chilling weather, the city exhibits its own charm with snowy landscapes. Sunshine during these months is minimal, with only 1 hour per day, further emphasizing the chilly winter ambiance.Weather in January
January sees the arrival of the New Year in Kristiansand, Norway and with it, chillier conditions. Subsequent to December, temperatures plunge further, reaching a stunning low of -4.8°C (23.4°F) and only rising to a high of 1.3°C (34.3°F). Weather in January »Weather in February
The month of February is marked by winter weather conditions that persist in this Norwegian city. Temperatures rise marginally from January peaking at 1.9°C (35.4°F), yet the cold grasp of winter is far from relinquished. The snowfall amount witnesses a considerable increase with 200mm (7.87") expected to accumulate throughout the month, appealing to winter sport enthusiasts. Weather in February »Weather in March
As March sets in, the abrasive grip of winter begins to taper off in Kristiansand. While the maximum temperature rises to a gentle 4.4°C (39.9°F), the city breathes a sigh of relief and revels in the thawing phase. Although rainfall persists, the snowfall drops to a meagre 50mm (1.97"), ushering in the onset of spring. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Kristiansand witnesses the transition from winter to spring conditions. A substantial leap in temperature — from 4.4°C (39.9°F) in March to 8.9°C (48°F) in April — signals the changing weather. This transition month is characterized by an absence of snowfall, signifying the complete departure of winter elements. Weather in April »Weather in May
May is a delightful time to be in Kristiansand due to its hospitable weather conditions. There's a perceptible leap in the maximum temperature, from 8.9°C (48°F) in April to a comfortable 14.3°C (57.7°F), marking the establishment of spring in its full glory. Weather in May »Weather in June
June sees the glorious onset of summer in Kristiansand, and the weather conditions are nothing short of remarkable. The city experiences its longest daylight span of 18.1 hours in this month, enabling an extended schedule of outdoor exploration. Weather in June »Weather in July
July is synonymous with balmy summer days in Kristiansand, marked by splendid weather. The mercury readings reach their pinnacle during this month, touching an annual high of 20.1°C (68.2°F). Beach activities are in full swing, fostered by warm seawater temperatures that entice beachgoers. Weather in July »Weather in August
August is another gem of a summer month in Kristiansand, characterized by warm weather, albeit with temperatures dipping slightly from the July peak to 19.3°C (66.7°F). Nevertheless, the city basks in still pleasing warmth. Rainfall gains momentum, recording 118mm (4.65") throughout the month, adding a refreshing touch to the summer heat. Weather in August »Weather in September
In September, the city witnesses a shift in weather from the heat of summer to the more mellow climes of fall. Temperatures endure a notable drop to a cooler 15.6°C (60.1°F), ushering in more comfortable conditions. Amid the drop in temperature and shorter sunlight hours, rainfall is at its apex with 141mm (5.55") recorded for the month. Weather in September »Weather in October
October invigorates Kristiansand with the crisp charm of autumn. The maximum temperature retreats further to a cooler 11.4°C (52.5°F) from the previous month's 15.6°C (60.1°F). Despite this, the city continues to dazzle with its vibrant array of autumnal colors. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Kristiansand is highlighted by an onset of chill, indicative of the approaching winter. Maximum temperatures dip further to a lower 6.2°C (43.2°F), and the first traces of snow begin to grace the city. The month continues to bear higher rainfall with 164mm (6.46") recorded, identical to October. Weather in November »Weather in December
December welcomes the winter season in full swing in Kristiansand, characterized by chilling temperatures and snowfall. With maximum temperature dwindling to 3°C (37.4°F) and a substantial 150mm (5.91") of snow accumulation, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. 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
The coldest month is January, with an average high-temperature of 1.3°C (34.3°F) and an average low-temperature of -4.8°C (23.4°F).
In Kristiansand, during the entire year, the rain falls for 129 days and collects up to 1299mm (51.14") of precipitation.
Months with snowfall in Kristiansand, Norway, are January through March, November and December.
In Kristiansand, Norway, during the entire year, snow falls for 25 days and aggregates up to 555mm (21.85") of snow.
The months with the least sunshine are January and December, with an average of 1h of sunshine.
The months with the lowest UV index in Kristiansand are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 0.
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 8 days and typically aggregates up to 200mm (7.87") of snow.
The month with the coldest seawater in Kristiansand, Norway, is March, with an average sea temperature of 4.3°C (39.7°F).
The month with the least rainfall is April, when the rain falls for 8 days and typically collects 59mm (2.32") of precipitation.
April through October are months without snowfall.
June has the longest days of the year in Kristiansand, with an average of 18h and 6min of daylight.
The months with the most sunshine in Kristiansand, Norway, are June and July, with an average of 8h of sunshine.
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index in Kristiansand.
July is the month when Kristiansand's temperatures reach their peak, with averages of 20.1°C (68.2°F) and lows of 11.1°C (52°F).
With an average sea temperature of 17.7°C (63.9°F), August is the month with the warmest seawater.
The months with the most rainfall are October and November, with an average 164mm (6.46") of precipitation.
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 shortest days is December, with an average of 6h and 36min of daylight.
Average temperature
Kristiansand, Norway
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (20.1°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (1.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (11.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-5.1°C).
Average rainfall
Kristiansand, Norway
- Average rainfall in July:
88mm - Average rainfall in August:
118mm - Average rainfall in September:
141mm - Average rainfall in October:
164mm - Average rainfall in November:
164mm - Average rainfall in December:
116mm
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are October and November (164mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (59mm).
Average rainfall days
Kristiansand, Norway
- Average rainfall days in January:
13 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10 days - Average rainfall days in March:
8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
9 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15 days - Average rainfall days in November:
14 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (15 days).
The months with the least rainy days are March and April (8 days).
Average snowfall
Kristiansand, Norway
The month with the highest snowfall is February (200mm).
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Kristiansand, Norway
- Average snowfall days in January:
8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
6 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are January and February (8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Kristiansand, Norway
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (17.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (4.3°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kristiansand, Norway
- Average daylight in January:
7h and 18min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 24min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 24min - Average daylight in May:
16h and 48min - Average daylight in June:
18h and 6min
- Average daylight in July:
17h and 24min - Average daylight in August:
15h and 18min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 48min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 18min - Average daylight in November:
7h and 54min - Average daylight in December:
6h and 36min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 18h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 6h and 36min).
The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 8h).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 1h).
Average UV index
Kristiansand, Norway
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 0).
