Reykjavik Weather: What to Expect in Iceland's Capital

Introduction to Reykjavik's Weather

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, has a climate shaped by its location and the ocean. It's the most populous city in the Nordic island nation. Reykjavik's weather is unique compared to other parts of Iceland.

Iceland's climate is cool, with temperatures changing a lot throughout the year. The Gulf Stream makes the weather milder along the southern and western coasts. This is very true in Reykjavik, where the weather can change fast and without warning.

In Reykjavik, the coldest month is January with an average high of 2°C. The warmest month is July, with an average high of 14°C. The average temperature throughout the year is 7.5°C.

The humidity in Reykjavik varies a lot, from 67% in May to 80% in November and December. The average humidity is 74% throughout the year.

Reykjavik gets a lot of rain, with the most in October. The average rainfall is 94mm in October and 779mm for the whole year. The city gets about 3.5 hours of sunshine a day, with the most in June and July.

Reykjavik's weather is influenced by its location and the natural beauty around it. This makes it a great place for travelers who want to see Iceland's unique climate.

Reykjavik Weather by Season

Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital, changes with the seasons. Each season brings its own unique weather, making it exciting for visitors. From spring to summer, the city's climate is varied, offering many experiences for those who love nature.

Spring Weather in Reykjavik

In spring in Reykjavik, the snow melts in the mountains and highlands. You'll see snow, sleet, rain, and sunny days. Temperatures range from 32°F to 50°F.

The city's coastline and gardens bloom with flowers like crocus and Easter lilies. This marks the start of warmer days.

Summer Weather in Reykjavik

Summer in Reykjavik is the peak tourist season. It has long days and temperatures around 54°F. The "golden hour" lighting is perfect for photographers, showing off the city's beauty.

Travelers enjoy the mild weather and outdoor activities. It's a great time to explore the city.

Reykjavik's weather changes a lot throughout the year. From spring to summer, each season has its own charm. Knowing about these changes helps visitors plan better and enjoy their trip to this beautiful city.

Temperature Ranges in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, has a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. These temperatures change a lot between winter and summer. Knowing the typical Reykjavik weather temperatures helps visitors plan their trip and pack right.

Average Winter Temperatures

In winter, Reykjavik's temperatures can go as low as -10°C (14°F). The average highs are around 0°C (32°F). January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures from -3°C to 2°C (26.6°F to 35.4°F) and -2.1°C to 2.8°C (28.2°F to 37°F), respectively.

The city has an average wind speed of 25-26 km/h (15.5-16.1 mph) in winter. There's about 12-13 days of rain each month.

Average Summer Temperatures

Reykjavik's reykjavik summer temperatures are much warmer. The average highs are 10-13°C (50-55°F), and lows are 2-7°C (35.6-44.6°F). June and July are the warmest months, with temperatures between 15-20°C (59-68°F).

Summers in Reykjavik bring long daylight hours. There can be up to 18 hours of sunlight in May and June.

The temperature changes in Reykjavik are not as extreme as in some places. But, the reykjavik weather temperatures can change quickly, no matter the season. Visitors should be ready for different weather during their stay.

Reykjavik Weather Patterns

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, has a dynamic weather. It sees a lot of rain all year and winds that can change a sunny day to a blizzard. Knowing about Reykjavik's weather is key for both visitors and locals.

Rainfall and Wind in Reykjavik

Reykjavik gets a lot of rain, with about 875.9 mm each year. Rainfall varies from 44 mm in the dry months to 86 mm in October and March. This shows Iceland's climate, shaped by the Gulf Stream's warm waters.

The city is also quite windy. Wind speeds average up to 24 km/h, with gusts over 40 mph (65 km/h) in winter. These winds come from the mix of Atlantic and Arctic air, leading to quick weather changes.

Even with the wind and rain, Reykjavik's weather can surprise you. Sunny days can turn into blizzards or fog quickly. Knowing about reykjavik weather patterns helps visitors plan and enjoy their trip to this unique place.

Reykjavik Weather by Month

Reykjavik’s weather changes a lot throughout the year, and the amount of daylight makes a big difference. In the summer, you get almost 24 hours of sunlight, while in the winter, there are only a few hours of daylight. These changes really affect how the weather feels and what you can do during your trip. Here’s a simple month-by-month guide to help you know what to expect!

January

January in Reykjavik is definitely chilly, with temperatures usually between -1°C and 2°C (30°F to 35°F). Snow often blankets the city, turning it into a winter wonderland. Daylight is scarce, so the nights are long—perfect for catching the Northern Lights if you're lucky! The weather can change quickly, so it's a good idea to dress in layers and be ready for anything.

February

February keeps up the winter vibes. Temperatures hover around freezing, often between 0°C and 3°C (32°F to 37°F). You'll probably see a mix of snow and sleet, and it can get pretty windy. On the bright side, the days start getting a bit longer, hinting that spring isn't too far off. If you're visiting, make sure to pack warm and waterproof clothing.

March

March is when Reykjavik starts transitioning from winter to early spring. Temperatures usually range from 0°C to 3°C (32°F to 37°F). The weather's still a bit unpredictable—you might get snow, rain, or even some sunny spells. With about 10 hours of daylight now, people are out and about more. As the snow melts, you can spot the first signs of spring popping up around the city.

April

By April, you'll notice a real change in the weather. Temperatures pick up a bit, averaging between 1°C and 6°C (34°F to 43°F). There's more sunshine, though you might still get the odd rain or snow shower. Flowers start blooming, and everything looks more lively. With longer days, it's a great time to explore the outdoors and enjoy the fresh spring air.

May

May is when Reykjavik really embraces spring. Temps are a bit warmer, usually between 4°C and 9°C (39°F to 48°F). The days are much longer—up to 16 hours of daylight! It's one of the drier months, and humidity drops to its lowest, so it's a fantastic time for outdoor activities. Don't forget to bring a light jacket, though; it can still be a bit cool.

June

June kicks off the summer season. Temperatures hover around 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F). Thanks to the Midnight Sun, you get almost 24 hours of daylight, which is pretty amazing. It's perfect for exploring since you have so much daylight to work with. The weather is milder, but it's still a good idea to have a light jacket on hand for the evenings.

July

July is the warmest month in Reykjavik. Highs reach about 14°C (57°F), and lows are around 9°C (48°F). With around 20 hours of daylight, there's plenty of time for festivals, concerts, and all sorts of outdoor fun. The weather is generally mild, making it great for hiking and sightseeing. You might get the occasional rain shower, so packing a light raincoat isn't a bad idea.

August

In August, temperatures stay pleasant, usually between 8°C and 13°C (46°F to 55°F). The days start to shorten a bit, but there's still lots of daylight. The weather can be a mix—some sunny days and some light rain. August also marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season, so keep an eye on the night sky as the evenings get longer.

September

September brings the start of autumn. Temperatures cool down to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). The leaves change color, making the city and surrounding areas look really picturesque. Rain becomes more common, and it can get a bit windier. It's a beautiful time to visit if you don't mind packing a few extra layers.

October

October is one of the wetter months, with rainfall peaking around 94 mm. Temperatures range from 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F). The days get noticeably shorter, and the weather can be quite unpredictable—think wind, rain, and even the first snowfall. Warm and waterproof clothing becomes a must.

November

November signals the onset of winter again. Temps drop to between 0°C and 4°C (32°F to 39°F), and daylight dwindles to about 5 hours by the end of the month. Snow becomes more frequent, and it can get pretty windy. But on the upside, the Northern Lights are often visible, which is a real treat.

December

December is cold and dark but also kind of magical. Temperatures are usually between -1°C and 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Daylight is at its shortest—around 4 hours—but that makes the festive lights and holiday atmosphere stand out even more. Snow covers the city, creating a perfect backdrop for winter activities and maybe catching the Northern Lights if you're lucky.

Reykjavik Weather Compared to Other Regions

Reykjavik has a mild climate for its location, but Iceland's weather changes a lot by region. The north and east get colder and snowier. The south coast is milder but windier and wetter.

Akureyri, the biggest town in North Iceland, has warmer summers and colder winters. It gets a lot of snow all season. Isafjordur in the Westfjords might be hard to reach in winter because of heavy snow.

In Reykjavik, winters are cold, with temperatures from 33-35°F (1-2°C). It can get as low as 14°F (-10°C). Summers are milder, with highs of 54°F (12°C) and lows of 44°F (7°C).

The hottest temperature in Iceland was 86.9°F (30.5°C) in 1939 in the east. This shows how diverse the weather can be.

Iceland uses 156 words for different wind conditions. This shows how important wind is in the weather. Most of the rain falls in the south and west from October to February.

Reykjavik's weather is mild but part of Iceland's changing climate. Visitors can see many weather types, from cold north to windy south. Each area offers unique adventures and sights.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Weather in Reykjavik