Weather in Ilulissat

Planning a trip to Ilulissat? Here you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, including current readings and a detailed forecast, so that nothing interferes with your plans.

The climate in this region can be described as harsh Arctic, which is quite expected for a place like Ilulissat. The city is under the influence of polar air masses, so permafrost reigns here, and the weather remains cold for most of the year. Precipitation is extremely low, effectively turning this territory into a polar desert where even snowfall is not as abundant as one might assume.

Seasonality is very pronounced here, but quite differently from temperate latitudes. Winter is long and frosty: from November to April, average temperatures stay confidently below zero, reaching -18°C...-20°C in the coldest months. Summer is short and cool, lasting from June to August. During this time, the air warms up to an average of +6°C...+9°C, which by local standards is considered true warmth and the ideal time for tourism.

A notable feature of the weather in Greenland is the stability of the temperature regime and low humidity. Thanks to the dry air, the piercing cold is tolerated slightly better than in a damp climate, although even in summer the thermometer rarely rises above +12°C. Travellers should be prepared for the fact that there is practically no rain here, and the main companion of walks will be fresh, frosty, and very clean air.

The climate in Ilulissat is harsh and truly Arctic, which defines the character of travel to this amazing region. The annual temperature range here is quite significant: from extreme frosts in winter to cool freshness in summer. The coldest month of the year is traditionally February with an average temperature of about -18.2°C, while the peak of warmth occurs in July, when the air warms up to an average of +9.1°C.

The winter season here is long and tests travellers' endurance. From November to April, the thermometer stays steadily below zero. It is especially frosty in January and February, when night temperatures can drop to -21.1°C. This is a time of true polar cold, when Greenland appears in its most severe yet majestic guise, requiring serious preparation and warm equipment from tourists.

Summer in Ilulissat is short and restrained. Even at the height of the season, in July and August, it is never hot here: maximum daytime temperatures rarely exceed +12.5°C. The weather feels invigorating and cool, ideally suitable for active recreation, though not for beach activities. Daily temperature fluctuations are present but not too sharp — the difference between the daytime maximum and nighttime minimum in summer is about 6–7 degrees, so even in the "warm" months, nights remain quite cold.

The climate in this region is harsh, but surprisingly little precipitation falls, which is characteristic of polar zones. Since Ilulissat is under the sway of freezing temperatures for most of the year, from October to May precipitation falls mainly as snow. The "driest" period can be called the end of winter and the beginning of spring: in February and March, the minimum number of days with precipitation is recorded (about 4–5 per month), and their volume is practically zero.

With the arrival of the short northern summer, when the thermometer rises above the freezing mark (from June to September), rain replaces snow. It is this period that accounts for the peak frequency of precipitation. The "rainiest" months are August and September, when 10 to 11 days with precipitation are observed. However, one should not expect heavy downpours: even at this time, the intensity of precipitation remains extremely low, often limited to a light drizzle or brief rain.

In general, prolonged torrential rains or powerful snowfalls that instantly bury the city are not characteristic of this part of Greenland. The general level of precipitation throughout the year is consistently low (1–2 mm per month). Nevertheless, tourists should take into account the high probability of overcast days in summer and autumn, when air humidity rises and the sky is often covered with clouds.

A trip to Ilulissat requires careful preparation, as the climate here is harsh even for seasoned tourists. The main principle of the wardrobe in Greenland is layering. In winter, when the average temperature drops to -18°C (and sometimes below -20°C), you will definitely need high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a windproof down jacket or parka. Do not forget insulated waterproof trousers, mittens, a warm hat, and a neck warmer to protect your face from the icy Arctic wind.

In summer, the weather becomes milder, but do not expect heat: the average temperature stays around +6...+9°C, rarely exceeding +12°C. For this season, clothing made of membrane fabrics (softshell) is ideal; it will protect against wind and possible precipitation while allowing the body to "breathe". Be sure to take comfortable trekking shoes with thick, treaded soles — they are necessary both for walking around the city and for hiking on rocky terrain. Even in July, during sea excursions to the icebergs, a light hat and gloves will be useful.

Regardless of the season, a critically important accessory is polarized sunglasses and cream with high SPF. The sun in these latitudes is very active, and its rays, reflecting off snow and ice, can be dangerous for the eyes and skin. Considering that the number of days with precipitation varies from 4 to 11 per month, instead of an umbrella, which strong winds might break, it is better to pack a high-quality raincoat in your suitcase. A small backpack for a change of clothes (so you can layer up or down depending on the situation) will make your walks as comfortable as possible.