Finland Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Finland has a temperate continental climate with fairly even precipitation throughout the year. In the southwest, summers are warm, while the rest of the country experiences milder summers. Despite its northern position, Finland is warmer than many other countries at the same latitude, mainly due to the proximity of warm seawater and the absence of high mountains.

Winter in Finland

Winter lasts from December to March. February is typically the coldest month, with average maximum temperatures ranging from a brisk -8°C (18°F) in Kilpisjärvi to a slightly milder 1°C (34°F) in Mariehamn. Snowfall in February is significant, with Nellimö receiving an average of 31 mm (1.2 in) and Kilpisjärvi registering 56 mm (2.2 in). The limited sunshine during this period, especially in Helsinki, which gets approximately [72] hours of sunlight, contrasts sharply with the bright summer months.

Summer in Finland

The summer season runs from June to September. By July, Finland experiences moderate to warm temperatures. Climate data from 1990 to 2020 indicates that Kilpisjärvi averages a daytime high of 15°C (59°F), while Laukkoski can climb to 24°C (75°F). Rainfall varies during this month, with Kökar witnessing an average of 49 mm (1.9 in) and Kilpisjärvi receiving a considerable 109 mm (4.3 in). Helsinki in July experiences both its wettest and warmest conditions, though it also benefits from about [291] hours of sunshine.

Best Time to Visit Finland

For travelers, the best time to visit Finland is from May to September. Remarkably, a quarter of Finland's landmass lies within the Arctic Circle, allowing visitors to experience the midnight sun during this period. At Finland’s northernmost tip, the sun does not set for [73] consecutive days in summer. In stark contrast, the sun remains below the horizon for [51] days in winter, when the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis lights up the skies.

Finland’s Growing Landmass

An interesting phenomenon in Finland is its increasing land area. Due to post-glacial rebound following the last ice age, Finland’s surface area expands by approximately 7 square kilometers (2.70 sq mi) annually.