Reykjavík Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Reykjavík. The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Now, let’s break down all the details for a clearer picture.

Reykjavík experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1436 mm of precipitation annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm)

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.

February, the city’s wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 3°C. During the driest month June you can expect a temperature of 14°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Reykjavík Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in Iceland

The map below shows the annual precipitation across Iceland. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Reykjavík’s average annual precipitation is 1436 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

Seville, Spain, experiences 541 mm of rainfall annually, with wet winters and dry summers typical of southern Spain.

In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm, with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.

In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm, making it wetter than Sydney.

Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.

How is Precipitation Measured?

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

Global Warming and Precipitation

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Reykjavík:

• Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
• Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.

For more detailed information about Reykjavík’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Reykjavík Climate page.