Reykjavík Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland. This average is based on long-term data collected between 1990 and 2020. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.
Reykjavík has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1436 mm of rain/snowfall 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 wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 3°C. The city receives 60 hours of sunshine in this period. 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.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide
Reykjavík’s average annual precipitation is 1436 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
In Lisbon, Portugal, the average annual precipitation is 774 mm, characterized by wet winters and dry summers typical of the Mediterranean climate.
Beijing, China, receives 560 mm of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.
In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm, making it wetter than Sydney.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.
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.
How Does Precipitation Affect Local Climate?
Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:
- Rainy Seasons: Many parts of the world have well-defined wet seasons where precipitation is distinctly higher. These are normally accompanied by lush vegetation and temperature patterns.
- Dry Seasons: In areas where the climate is either desert or Mediterranean, the amount of precipitation is drastically reduced, leading to a shortage of water and arid conditions.
For more detailed information about Reykjavík’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Reykjavík Climate page.
Current rainfall in Reykjavík
