Weather in Rovaniemi

Planning your day in Rovaniemi? Get the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, explore the charts, and view the forecasts presented below to be prepared for any changes in the weather.

The climate of Rovaniemi is classified as subarctic, owing to its location on the Arctic Circle in Finland. This region is characterised by significant contrasts between seasons: winters here are long, snowy, and truly frosty, while summers are short but surprisingly mild and bright. Thanks to this location, the weather plays a key role in shaping the city's unique atmosphere, transforming it from a snow-covered winter wonderland into a green oasis under the Midnight Sun.

The temperature regime demonstrates a wide range of changes throughout the year. During winter months, such as January and February, the average temperature hovers around -10°C, requiring serious thermal gear for tourists. With the arrival of summer, the air warms up, and in July, average figures reach a comfortable +16°C, while on warm days, the temperature can rise to nearly +20°C. The transitional seasons—spring and autumn—are usually cool and pass quite rapidly.

Precipitation in Rovaniemi falls regularly throughout the year. In winter, the city is guaranteed to be blanketed in a thick layer of snow, while rain is frequent during the warmer months. According to statistics, August often becomes the month with the highest number of rainy days. Travellers should take this variability into account and always have appropriate clothing on hand to comfortably enjoy the nature of Lapland regardless of the weather's whims.

The climate in Rovaniemi is distinguished by a distinctly northern character, where winter occupies the greater part of the year. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of around -10.5°C, with nighttime figures often dropping to -13.2°C. February is only slightly less severe than January, maintaining average values around -9.8°C. Steady frosts begin as early as November and continue right through to April, requiring thorough preparation and warm, multi-layered clothing from travellers.

Summer in this region of Finland is short, but very pleasant and mild, without exhausting heat. The warmest time of the year is considered to be July, when the air warms up to an average of 15.9°C, and daytime highs can reach a comfortable 19.8°C. June and August are slightly cooler, with average temperatures around 13-14°C. Such weather is ideal for long walks and active leisure, although even in the height of summer, one should not forget a light jacket for the evening.

The transitional seasons pass rapidly. Spring arrives quite late: confident frosts of around -6°C persist in March, and stable positive temperatures around 6.2°C are only established in May. Autumn begins as early as September, when the thermometer drops to 8.5°C, and by October, the air cools to 1.1°C. The difference between day and night temperatures throughout the year averages 4-5 degrees, so the nights here are always noticeably fresher than the days.

The nature of precipitation in Rovaniemi depends directly on the changing seasons, creating a unique atmosphere at every time of year. In winter, which lasts here from November to March, the city is covered by a dense blanket of snow. Thanks to stable freezing temperatures (averaging from -4°C to -10.5°C), precipitation falls exclusively as snow. December is one of the snowiest months, when about 15 days with precipitation are recorded, creating ideal conditions for a winter fairytale and reindeer sleigh rides.

Spring brings not only warming but also the driest weather. April and March are considered the period with the lowest frequency of precipitation—only 8-9 days per month. This is an excellent time for those who prefer clear skies, although snow still lies everywhere in early spring. With the arrival of summer, when the average temperature rises to +15.9°C in July, the character of the weather changes: snow is replaced by rain.

The summer and autumn seasons in Lapland are characterised by increased humidity. August stands out as the month with the highest frequency of precipitation in the year—rain can fall for about 17 days a month. In autumn, especially in October (14 days with precipitation), rains become prolonged and, as it gets colder, gradually turn into wet snow. Travellers are recommended to always carry waterproof clothing, as the weather can be changeable even in summer.

Since Rovaniemi is located by the Arctic Circle, preparing for a trip requires special attention to your wardrobe, especially during the winter period. From November to March, when the temperature consistently stays below freezing (averaging down to -10°C, though more severe frosts occur), the main principle becomes layering. Be sure to bring high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a windproof warm down jacket or parka. Accessories play a key role: a warm hat, scarf, and waterproof mittens are essential for comfortable walks around the snow-covered city.

Summer in this region of Finland is mild and fresh; one should not expect intense heat: the average temperature in July is around +16°C. For a summer trip, long-sleeved t-shirts, jeans, and a light jumper for cool evenings are suitable. Given that there can be up to 13–17 rainy days per month in summer, a compact umbrella, raincoat, or waterproof windbreaker must be in your suitcase. Also, do not forget sunglasses, which will be useful both on a bright winter day and during the Midnight Sun in summer.

Pay special attention to footwear. In winter, these should be insulated boots with thick, ridged soles to avoid slipping on the ice and to keep from freezing while waiting for the Northern Lights. For the shoulder seasons and summer, choose comfortable waterproof trainers or trekking boots suitable for long walks. In spring and autumn, the weather is particularly changeable, with fluctuations from night frosts to daytime warmth, so the ability to easily remove or add an extra layer of clothing will ensure your comfort in any situation.