Weather in Kangaatsiaq

Planning your day or preparing for a trip? Here you will find the up-to-date weather forecast for the city of Kangaatsiaq, as well as detailed charts and the latest meteorological data.

The climate in the city of Kangaatsiaq can be characterized as typical Arctic, with the harsh conditions characteristic of this part of Greenland. For most of the year, sub-zero temperatures prevail here, creating the atmosphere of a true polar winter. Travellers should be prepared for the fact that even during the warmest months, the weather remains distinctly northern and crisp, and warm clothing will be necessary in any season.

The seasons here are quite clearly defined, although the summer is very short and cool. Winter is long and frosty, with average temperatures dropping below -16°C in February. The summer period, falling on June-August, brings a warming trend where the air warms up to an average of +6...+7°C. This time is ideal for those who wish to escape the heat and enjoy the rugged beauty of northern nature without extreme frost.

An interesting feature of the local weather is the low level of precipitation in terms of volume, despite a fairly regular number of days with precipitation. This means that while the sky may often be overcast, and light snow or drizzle may appear periodically, intense downpours are a rarity here. Such stability allows you to plan walks and excursions if you are equipped appropriately.

Climatic conditions in Kangaatsiaq correspond fully to its location in Greenland: it is a realm of Arctic cool with a stern character. The annual temperature range is quite wide, varying from deep winter frosts to very modest summer warmth. The coldest time of the year is traditionally February with average readings around -16.9°C, while the peak of warming occurs in July, when the air warms up on average to only +6.7°C.

Winter reigns supreme here for most of the year, being the dominant season. Stable sub-zero temperatures set in as early as October and persist right through to May. The lowest values are recorded at the end of winter: in February, nighttime temperatures can drop to -19.2°C, and during the day the thermometer rarely rises above -14.5°C. This is a time of true tests by cold, requiring serious preparation and special equipment from travellers.

The summer period is short and cool, reminiscent more of early spring or late autumn in temperate latitudes. In the warmest months—July and August—daytime highs barely reach +8... +9°C, creating an invigorating and fresh atmosphere with no hint of heat. Notably, daily temperature fluctuations in this region are minimal: the difference between day and night readings is usually only 2–4 degrees, so the weather feels quite stable throughout the entire day.

When planning a journey to Kangaatsiaq, it is important to consider the harsh Arctic climate of this region. Since the average daily air temperature stays below zero for most of the year, precipitation mainly falls in the form of snow. A stable snow cover and snowfalls are characteristic of the long winter period, which effectively lasts from October to May.

Summer months bring warming, and the nature of precipitation changes: at this time, especially in July and August, rain and light drizzle are possible. August stands out as the "rainiest" month in terms of weather frequency—precipitation can be observed up to 12 days per month. September and December are also distinguished by a high frequency of precipitation (about 11 days).

If you are looking for the clearest weather, it is worth paying attention to the spring season. February and May are statistically the driest months of the year, when the number of days with precipitation drops to a minimum—about 5 days. Although the total volume of precipitation in millimetres is low here year-round, the weather in Greenland is changeable, so high-quality waterproof clothing will be relevant in any season.

A trip to Kangaatsiaq requires careful wardrobe preparation, as the weather here remains harsh for most of the year. The main principle of outfitting in this region of Greenland is layering. For the winter months, when the temperature holds steadily below -10°C and can drop to -20°C, be sure to take high-quality wool thermal underwear, warm fleece sweaters, and a windproof down parka with a hood. Do not forget insulated trousers, a hat, a scarf, and mittens, which retain heat better than gloves.

Summer here is very cool: even in July and August, the thermometer rarely rises above +9°C. Therefore, light summer clothing will not be useful to you; the basis of your luggage even in the "warm" season should consist of sweaters, thick trousers, and softshell jackets. Although the volume of precipitation is low, the number of wet days in the summer period is significant (up to 12 days a month), so a waterproof windbreaker or raincoat will become indispensable items for protection against fog and drizzle.

Pay special attention to footwear: it should be comfortable, waterproof, and have a non-slip sole for walking on rocky terrain. In winter, boots with serious insulation are necessary. Additionally, despite the cold, the sun in polar latitudes can be very active, especially when rays reflect off snow and ice. Be sure to put sunglasses with a high level of protection and a rich face cream in your backpack, which will protect your skin from windburn and ultraviolet radiation.