The weather in Greenland

Climatic conditions

Arctic temperatures
Greenland has an arctic climate with mean temperatures that do not exceed 10° C (50° F) in the warmest summer months. In the southern part of the country and the innermost parts of the long fjords, the temperature can, however, rise to more than 20° C (68° F) in June, July or August.

Light mist in Nuuk

Variable coastal and inland climate
The sea around Greenland affects the climate on the land. The stretches of coastline close to the open sea, in particular, are cooled by the sea. Therefore during the summer months it is warmest and driest in the middle of the country, which lies closest to the ice sheet. In all parts of the country the weather is locally changeable and can vary from fjord to fjord and from one valley to the next. You can get the best weather information by enquiring at local tourist offices or asking local people.

Low humidity
The air is generally very dry in Greenland in relation to many other countries, and because of this low humidity the low temperatures do not feel as cold as you might expect. On the other hand, the dry air means that you must drink more water than normal. The low humidity also means that you can see further than you are probably used to. Mountain crests that appear to be close are usually further away than you think and this should be borne in mind when planning a hike.

Please select country Japan UK Other Denmark Germany USA