Climate and monthly weather forecastKiruna, Sweden
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Kiruna
Nestled in the region of Norrbotten County, Kiruna finds itself in the subarctic category per the Köppen weather classification. With no dry season, severe winters, and cool summers, the Dfc climate type defines the city. Long, cold winters are presented with a sizeable amount of snowfall, contrasted by short cool summers that offer significantly more daylight and less precipitation.Fluctuations are common in weather parameters throughout the year in Kiruna. Temperature changes are particularly profound, with average highs ranging from -9.9°C (14.2°F) in January to 16.8°C (62.2°F) in July, while average lows deviate between -15.7°C (3.7°F) in January and 8.9°C (48°F) in July. When looking at precipitation, rainfall ranges from 20mm (0.79") in March to 53mm (2.09") in July while snowfall reaches peak volumes of 204mm (8.03") in December. With an eye to the sky, daylight averages stretch from a mere 3.4 hours in January to an abundant 24 hours in June. Edifying, the sunshine varies as well, from 0.6 hours in June to 9.2 hours in August.
Some uncommon weather patterns become evident upon inspection, including snowfall in September and highest rainfall in July. Despite being in the summer season, July hosts the highest rainfall of 53mm (2.09"). Interestingly, this coincides with the warmest average high temperature of 16.8°C (62.2°F). Uniquely, September, which is a month of the fall season, experiences a sudden reappearance of snowfall at 40mm (1.57").
The best time to visit Kiruna
Considering the breadth of weather parameters, the ideal time to visit Kiruna is from June to August. During these months, the temperature rises to an amiable extent, with average highs varying from 13°C (55.4°F) to 16.8°C (62.2°F) and lows resting between 5.7°C (42.3°F) and 8.9°C (48°F). Amid this time, there is a feast of daylight with an average of 24 hours in June which gradually decreases to 17.3 hours by August. With such ample time under the sun, opportunities proliferate to explore the city and its surroundings. It is also important to note that this period furnishes the lowest overall chance of encountering snowfall, which is only 5mm (0.2") in June.The worst time to visit Kiruna
Unsurprisingly, the harsh winter months from December through February qualify as the least inviting for visitors. The temperature plummets drastically, with highs falling to -7.2°C (19°F) to -9.9°C (14.2°F) and lows stretching from -12.6°C (9.3°F) to -15.7°C (3.7°F). Precipitation predominantly appears as hefty volumes of snowfall, rising from 155mm (6.1") in November to a sizable 204mm (8.03") in December. Accompanying these daunting conditions, daylight becomes a scarcity, dwindling from five hours in November to a scarce 0.6 hours in December. Travel plans during these months can easily be disrupted due to potentially unmanageable weather conditions.Spring weather in Kiruna
Spring in Kiruna extends from March to May, characterized by an increasing amount of daylight and pervasive cold temperatures. Average high temperatures inch up from -5.3°C (22.5°F) to 4.9°C (40.8°F), while lows sluggishly leap from -13.1°C (8.4°F) to -1.8°C (28.8°F). Precipitation tends to be a mix of rain and snow, with rainfall voluminously shifting from 20mm (0.79") to 36mm (1.42") and snowfall reducing noticeably from 111mm (4.37") to 112mm (4.41"). Daylight rises significantly, improving from 11.8 hours in March to an impressive 20.8 hours in May.Summer weather in Kiruna
Summers in Kiruna, encompassing June through August, are relatively cool and feature extended daylight hours. High temperatures accommodate the season, reaching between 13°C (55.4°F) and 16.8°C (62.2°F), while low temperatures oscillate from 5.7°C (42.3°F) to 8.9°C (48°F). Rainfall is highest during this time of the year, with volumes ranging between 39mm (1.54") and 53mm (2.09"). Conversely, snow disappears completely from July to August. The high altitude of Kiruna bestows the city with prolonged daylight, topping at generous 24 hours in June.Autumn weather in Kiruna
Autumn months in Kiruna, running from September through November, are characterized by a substantial drop in temperature and reduced daylight. High temperatures fall staggeringly from 9.5°C (49.1°F) in September to -4.5°C (23.9°F) in November. Correspondingly, low temperatures descend from 2.9°C (37.2°F) to -9°C (15.8°F). Rainfall starts to decrease mid-autumn while snowfall re-appears quite suddenly at 40mm (1.57") in September, and escalates to 155mm (6.1") by November. Daylight hours also wane rapidly from 13.2 hours in September to merely 5 hours by November.Winter weather in Kiruna
In line with the subarctic climate, Kiruna welcomes a harsh winter from December to February. Temperatures plunge with highs oscillating between -4.5°C (23.9°F) and -9.9°C (14.2°F), while lows fluctuate between -9°C (15.8°F) and -15.7°C (3.7°F). The city becomes a winter wonderland as snowfall peaks at a hefty 204mm (8.03") in December. With dark dominating the scene, daylight dwindles to a minimal 0.6 hours in December, a formidable reminder of the city’s proximity to the Arctic Circle.Weather in January
Frigid temperatures define January weather in Kiruna, Sweden, with the snowfall reaching numbers as high as 156mm (6.14"). In contrast to later months, this period offers the shortest daylight hours and a consistently high humidity level. Weather in January »Weather in February
Due to the persistent winter, February weather doesn't significantly deviate from that of January. The month sees a minor increase in daylight hours, though snowfall remains extensive at 153mm (6.02"). The temperature continues to be harsh, and the winds do not let up. Weather in February »Weather in March
A noticeable shift happens in March as a welcome rise in temperatures starts pointing towards the arrival of spring. Even though the snowfall continues to be significant, the highest level of 111mm (4.37") illustrates a downward trend. Weather in March »Weather in April
As spring takes hold, April introduces a comfortable climate. Most noticeable is the decline in both snowfall and windy conditions. Moreover, the daytime stretches further, and a significant drop of 122mm (4.8") in snowfall happens this month. Weather in April »Weather in May
May marks the definitive arrival of spring, leading to a dramatic deviation from the preceding winter months. The temperatures begin to climb up, signifying warmer days ahead. The end of heavy snowfall adds to the attractiveness of this time of the year. Weather in May »Weather in June
June is a breath of fresh air with its significantly higher temperatures and sunny disposition. Given the increase in daylight hours to 24 hours, the month earns the appellation of 'Midnight Sun'. There's a stark absence of snowfall — a first-time occurrence after a long stretch of winter months. Weather in June »Weather in July
July serves as the peak of summer with the warmest temperatures of the year recorded. Subsequently, this is the month with the highest rainfall of 53mm (2.09"), depicting the arrival of occasional showers. Despite the rainfall, abundant sunshine dominates the days leading to picturesque afternoons. Weather in July »Weather in August
There's perceptible alteration in August as weather patterns begin to change. A downward temperature trend from July becomes evident. Rainfall also decreases slightly to a level of 38mm (1.5"). Towards the end, the onset of the fall season brings a gradual change in the landscape's hues. Weather in August »Weather in September
September kick starts the fall season, and changes in weather conditions become more apparent. The return of snowfall in September, although only 40mm (1.57"), heralds the onset of the upcoming winter season. Temperatures continue to drop, and daylight hours decrease considerably. Weather in September »Weather in October
October is marked by significant alterations as the signs of winter become more prominent. The major highlight of this month is the surge in snowfall to 129mm (5.08"). Apart from this, the fall season continues its course with temperature continually declining. Weather in October »Weather in November
November marks the onset of a harsh streak of winter months, which will continue until early spring. High snowfall levels of 155mm (6.1") and dipping temperatures become the norm this month. The fall-season hues start to fade, replaced by frosty landscapes. Weather in November »Weather in December
December ushers in the complete winter season in Kiruna, Sweden, and records the highest snowfall of 204mm (8.03") on average. As befitting the festive season, the surroundings are beautifully adorned with a snowy mantle. The shortest day of the year occurs this month, with daylight lasting for a mere 0.6 hours. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 2, 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
January tends to be the coldest month in Kiruna, with temperatures averaging a daily high of -9.9°C (14.2°F) and a low of -15.7°C (3.7°F).
January, February and April, with an average relative humidity of 92%, are most humid months in Kiruna, Sweden.
Throughout the year, there are 108 rainfall days, and 373mm (14.69") of precipitation is accumulated.
January through June, September through December are months with snowfall in Kiruna.
Throughout the year, in Kiruna, Sweden, there are 134.8 snowfall days, and 1187mm (46.73") of snow is accumulated.
January, February, April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
The month with the least rainfall in Kiruna, Sweden, is March, when the rain falls for 5.8 days and typically collects 20mm (0.79") of precipitation.
June is the least humid month in Kiruna, Sweden, with an average relative humidity of 65%.
With an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Kiruna.
With an average of 0.6h of sunshine, June has the least sunshine of the year in Kiruna.
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 4, are months with the highest UV index in Kiruna, Sweden.
Kiruna, Sweden, records the warmest temperatures in July, averaging a high of 16.8°C (62.2°F) and a low of 8.9°C (48°F).
The month with the most rainfall in Kiruna, Sweden, is July, when the rain falls for 16.3 days and typically aggregates up to 53mm (2.09") of precipitation.
July and August are months without snowfall.
August has the longest days of the year in Kiruna, Sweden, with an average of 17h and 18min of daylight.
The month with the most sunshine in Kiruna, Sweden, is August, with an average of 9.2h 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.
December is the month with the most snowfall in Kiruna. Snow falls for 21.1 days and accumulates 204mm (8.03") of snow.
Average temperature
Kiruna, Sweden
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (16.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (-9.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (8.9°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-16°C).
Average pressure
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average pressure in January:
1008.3mbar - Average pressure in February:
1008.1mbar - Average pressure in March:
1006.7mbar - Average pressure in April:
1011.4mbar - Average pressure in May:
1014.3mbar - Average pressure in June:
1011.4mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1010.7mbar - Average pressure in August:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1010mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in November:
1008.1mbar - Average pressure in December:
1003.7mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is May (1014.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is December (1003.7mbar).
Average wind speed
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average wind speed in January:
11.7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
11.8km/h - Average wind speed in March:
13.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
10.7km/h - Average wind speed in May:
11.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
14km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
12.6km/h - Average wind speed in August:
11.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
12.5km/h - Average wind speed in October:
11.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
10.8km/h - Average wind speed in December:
11.7km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (14km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is April (10.7km/h).
Average humidity
Kiruna, Sweden
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and April (92%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (65%).
Average rainfall
Kiruna, Sweden
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (53mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (20mm).
Average rainfall days
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average rainfall days in January:
5.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
5.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
7.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
10.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
5.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (16.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (3.4 days).
Average snowfall
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average snowfall in January:
156mm - Average snowfall in February:
153mm - Average snowfall in March:
111mm - Average snowfall in April:
122mm - Average snowfall in May:
112mm - Average snowfall in June:
5mm
The month with the highest snowfall is December (204mm).
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average snowfall days in January:
19.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
18 days - Average snowfall days in March:
17.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
15.7 days - Average snowfall days in May:
10 days - Average snowfall days in June:
1.6 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
3 days - Average snowfall days in October:
13 days - Average snowfall days in November:
15.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
21.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (21.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are July and August (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average daylight in January:
3h and 24min - Average daylight in February:
7h and 48min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 48min - Average daylight in April:
15h and 48min - Average daylight in May:
16h and 54min - Average daylight in June:
0h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 12min - Average daylight in August:
17h and 18min - Average daylight in September:
13h and 12min - Average daylight in October:
9h and 18min - Average daylight in November:
5h and 0min - Average daylight in December:
0h and 36min
The month with the longest days is August (Average daylight: 17h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 0h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
1h and 30min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 42min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 30min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 12min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 12min - Average sunshine in June:
0h and 36min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 6min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 12min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 48min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 36min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 18min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 42min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 9h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 0h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
Kiruna, Sweden
- Average sunshine days in January:
11.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
11.4 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.4 days - Average sunshine days in May:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
13 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15 days - Average sunshine days in September:
12.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
12.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in December:
9.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (15 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (9.5 days).
Average UV index
Kiruna, Sweden
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, April, November and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Kiruna, Sweden
The months with the most cloud cover are January and December (Cloud cover 64).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and August (Cloud cover 51).
Average visibility
Kiruna, Sweden
The month with the highest visibility is June (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and February (6km).
