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Iqaluit (NU) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Iqaluit.
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Climate overview of Iqaluit
Temperatures in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 12°C (54°F), while February is the coldest at -21°C (-6°F).
With around 605 mm (24 in) of annual rain/snowfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. August is the wettest month and February the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from December to April, with mild summers and very cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 7.9 hours of sunshine per day.
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
The climate in Iqaluit is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 12°C (54°F) in July to a very cold -21°C (-6°F) in the coolest month, February.
Nights vary from 5°C (41°F) in July to around -28°C (-18°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Iqaluit
Generally, Iqaluit receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 605 mm (24 in) annually. The climate in Iqaluit shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in August, the wettest month, with an average of 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 15 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 22 mm (0.9 in) of snowfall over 11 snowy days. 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
For those who appreciate different seasons, Iqaluit serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 7.9 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 0.4 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Data from: Iqaluit, Canada (2 KM, 1 Miles).
Daily hours of sunshine
Data from: Iqaluit, Canada (2 KM, 1 Miles).
Daily percentage of sunshine
Data from: Iqaluit, Canada (2 KM, 1 Miles).
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
Data from: Iqaluit, Canada (2 KM, 1 Miles).
Wind Speed in Iqaluit
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in March, July and August to 5 m/s (10 knots) in May, October and November. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Data from: Iqaluit, Canada (2 KM, 1 Miles).
Best Time to Visit Iqaluit
Compared with the rest of the year, the most comfortable conditions in Iqaluit are usually found in July and August. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very cold
Feb
very cold
Mar
very cold
Apr
very cold
May
cold
Jun
cold
Jul
mixed
Aug
mixed
Sep
cold
Oct
cold
Nov
very cold
Dec
very cold
- 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 -21°C (-6°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 605 mm (24 in). August is the wettest month with 91 mm (3.6 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
Iqaluit is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in October
Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Toronto
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