Iqaluit Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Iqaluit.
Climate overview of Iqaluit
The climate in Iqaluit, Canada, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 12°C (54°F) in July to -22°C (-8°F) in February.
The city receives around 599 mm (24 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from December to April, with mild summers and very cold winters. August is the wettest month and February the driest. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 7.9 hours of daily sunshine.
Iqaluit Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Iqaluit - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Iqaluit
In Iqaluit, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a moderate 12°C (54°F) in July to a very cold -22°C (-8°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in July to -28°C (-18°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Iqaluit
On average, Iqaluit receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 599 mm (24 in). The seasons in Iqaluit bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, August, receives moderate rainfall, with an average of 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 15 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, February, experiences much less snowfall, totaling 22 mm (0.9 in) over 11 snowy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Iqaluit Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Iqaluit
In Iqaluit, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 7.9 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 0.4 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Iqaluit by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Iqaluit.
The city experiences its highest humidity in October, reaching 80%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 68%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Iqaluit
The mean wind speed varies between 3 m/s (6 knots) and 5 m/s (10 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in March, July and August and highest during May, October and November. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Iqaluit
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from December to April, with mild summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: February, with freezing nights around -28°C (-18°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Iqaluit
What is the best time to visit Iqaluit?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Iqaluit. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Iqaluit has a distinct dry season from December to April, with mild summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Iqaluit?
Daytime highs range from -22°C (-8°F) in February to 12°C (54°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -28°C (-18°F) to 5°C (41°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Iqaluit get?
Annual rainfall is around 599 mm (24 in). August is the wettest month with 90 mm (3.5 in), while February is the driest with 22 mm (0.9 in).
How sunny is Iqaluit?
Iqaluit receives around 1,494 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 236 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 12 hours.
Iqaluit 3-Day Forecast
Iqaluit on the map
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