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Reykjavík Climate by Month

Reykjavik experiences a cool maritime climate with relatively mild winters and fairly cool summers. During winter the temperature is around freezing during the day and at night it freezes lightly. Under influence of the warm ocean water it can also stay above freezing during some days in winter. Sometimes the temperature can drop during the night to freezing temperature of around -20°C or even lower.

On an annual basis Reykjavik has around 1300 hours of sun, 800 mm of precipitation and 150 precipitation days.

Average day and night temperature

The climate in Reykjavík is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. On average, daytime temperatures range from a moderate 16°C in July to a chilly 3°C in February. Nighttime temperatures can drop, with averages reaching -3°C in February.

The mean minimum and maximum temperatures throughout the year

Precipitation and rainy days

Reykjavík has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1436 mm of rain/snowfall per year. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, February, sees around 148 mm of snow/rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of snow/rain now and then. The driest month, June, still receives a respectable 87 mm of rainfall.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail and snow

Sunshine over the year

In Reykjavík, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.7 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. January sees a soft sun for only 0.7 hours per average day.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Average water temperature

The mean water temperature over the year in Reykjavík ranges from 6°C in January to 11°C in July.

Water temperature over the year

The best time of year to visit Reykjavík in Iceland

Other facts from our historical weather data:
  • Which is the warmest month in Reykjavík?
    July has an average maximum temperature of 16°C and is the warmest month of the year.
  • Which is the coldest month in Reykjavík?
    The coldest month is February with an average maximum temperature of 3°C.
  • Which is the wettest month in Reykjavík?
    February tops the wettest month list with 148 mm of rainfall.
  • Which is the driest month in Reykjavík?
    June is the driest month with 87 mm of precipitation.
  • Which is the sunniest month in Reykjavík?
    May is the sunniest month with an average of 201 hours of sunshine.

  • No idea where to travel to this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.

    Forecast for Reykjavík

    Wed   Dec 11
    7°C | 2°C
    SE 36 km/h
    19 mm
    overcast and heavy rain

    overcast and heavy rain

    Thu   Dec 12
    6°C | 0°C
    S 32 km/h
    5.9 mm
    broken clouds and rain

    broken clouds and rain

    Fri   Dec 13
    0°C | -3°C
    N 29 km/h
    broken clouds and no rain

    broken clouds and no rain