Weather in Kangerlussuaq

Find out what weather awaits you if you are heading to Kangerlussuaq. In this section, we have gathered up-to-date meteorological reports, forecasts, and charts to help you plan your journey comfortably.

Kangerlussuaq is a unique destination that serves as the main air gateway to Greenland. Located at the end of a long fjord, this settlement differs significantly from the island's coastal towns due to its continental climate and landscapes. For many travellers, their introduction to Arctic nature begins right here, as it is the only place in the country where a road leads directly to the Greenland Ice Sheet.

The surroundings of the settlement feature picturesque tundra inhabited by wildlife. It is home to one of the largest populations of musk oxen in the world, which can often be spotted right by the roadside or during hiking trips. Tourists come here to visit the impressive Russell Glacier, whose massive ice walls tower over the landscape, or to trek the Arctic Circle Trail that connects the settlement to the coast.

The weather here is characterised by stability and low precipitation. Winters are cold and clear: in January and February, the average temperature hovers around -20°C, creating ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. Summer is cool but sunny, with temperatures rising to +10°C and above in July, allowing for comfortable exploration of the surroundings and enjoyment of the Polar Day.

Kangerlussuaq is distinguished by a pronounced continental climate, ensuring significant temperature contrasts throughout the year. Winter here is genuine and severe: the lowest readings are recorded in February, when the average temperature drops to -20.3°C, and night frosts can reach -23.4°C. January and December also require serious preparation and the warmest equipment, as the thermometer firmly stays below -14°C even during the day.

Summer in this region of Greenland is cool, yet quite comfortable for active leisure by Arctic standards. The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of around 9.8°C and daily highs reaching 13.4°C. In June and August, the air warms up to an average of 6–8°C. This time of year is characterised by the absence of exhausting heat, offering tourists a fresh and invigorating atmosphere, ideal for exploring glaciers and the tundra.

Transitional seasons here are quite rapid. By May, the average temperature crosses the freezing mark, rising to positive values, while stable frosts return in October. The difference between daily highs and nightly lows throughout the year averages 3–5 degrees. Although these fluctuations may seem minor, in low-temperature conditions, even a slight cooling towards the evening is felt quite acutely.

The climate in this region can be described as Arctic continental, and Kangerlussuaq is known as one of the driest places on the island. Throughout the year, total precipitation levels remain extremely low, rarely exceeding 1-2 mm per month. In winter, from November to March, when temperatures drop significantly below zero, moisture falls exclusively as light snow. The "driest" months are considered to be February and March, when only 3 to 5 days with precipitation are recorded.

With the arrival of warmer weather, the character of the weather changes. Summer (from June to August) is considered a conditionally "wet" season, although this definition is relative. During this period, the number of days with precipitation increases to 12 per month, but due to the low total volume of moisture, this is most often just a brief drizzle or light rain rather than heavy downpours. September also remains quite cloudy with 11 rainy days, after which the frequency of precipitation decreases again towards winter.

A trip to Kangerlussuaq requires a careful approach to wardrobe selection, as the weather here is truly Arctic. In winter, when the thermometer often drops below -20°C, the foundation of your comfort will be high-quality thermal underwear and clothing made from natural wool. Be sure to bring a windproof parka, insulated trousers, a warm hat, and mittens to protect yourself from the deep frost.

Summer in this region is cool, with an average temperature of around +10°C, so the main principle for clothing is layering. A combination of a t-shirt, a fleece jacket, and a light windbreaker will allow you to quickly adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Although heavy rains are rare here, the number of cloudy and damp days increases in summer, so a waterproof jacket and reliable trekking boots will be indispensable for walks.

Do not forget important accessories: due to the clean air and light reflection from the snow or glacier, you will definitely need sunglasses and cream with high SPF, which is relevant in both spring and summer. Also, if you plan to visit in June or July, it is highly recommended to bring insect repellents or a mosquito head net, as insects can be quite active during this period.