Weather in Maniitsoq

Stay informed about the current meteorological conditions when visiting Maniitsoq. Below, you will find fresh weather data, forecasts, and useful charts to help you plan your day.

The climate where Maniitsoq is located can confidently be described as harsh Arctic, although the proximity to the sea slightly mitigates temperature fluctuations. This region of Greenland is characterized by long, freezing winters and very short, cool summers. Even during the warmest months, a freshness remains here that is invigorating and reminds one of the grandeur of northern nature.

A clearly defined winter lasts for most of the year, reaching peak cold in February, when temperatures can drop to -17°C. Summer arrives in June, but even at the height of the season, in July and August, the average air temperature hovers around +7...+8°C. This is the most comfortable time for a visit, allowing you to explore the surroundings without extreme frost, although you will still need a warm jacket even in July.

An interesting feature of the local weather is the nature of the precipitation. Although the volume in millimetres is extremely small, the number of days with precipitation remains consistently high—averaging from 9 to 14 days per month throughout the year. This means that instead of heavy downpours or snowstorms, there is often a light drizzle or light snow here, so high-quality windproof and waterproof clothing should be the foundation of your luggage.

The climate in the town of Maniitsoq is typical for Arctic latitudes: severe, yet in its own way, majestic weather reigns here. The annual temperature regime is characterized by distinct seasonality, although the concept of "warmth" here is quite relative. The coldest month of the year is February, with an average temperature of about -14.6°C and night frosts down to -17.0°C. The warmest period is traditionally considered to be July, when the air warms up to an average of 7.8°C.

Winter in this region of Greenland is long and freezing. Consistent sub-zero temperatures set in as early as October and persist through April inclusive. In the harshest months, January and February, even daytime readings rarely rise above -9°C. Travellers should be prepared for serious cold: piercing winds can intensify the sensation of frost, so high-quality warm equipment is absolutely essential here.

The summer season brings a long-awaited but modest warming. The weather in June, July, and August is more reminiscent of a cool autumn in temperate latitudes: average daily maximums range between 6–10.5°C. There is no heat here; the climate remains fresh and invigorating. Diurnal temperature variations are not very large—the difference between day and night is usually only 3–5 degrees, so even on summer nights, the thermometer drops to 1–5°C above zero.

The nature of precipitation in the town of Maniitsoq is determined by the harsh Arctic climate. Throughout the year, an interesting feature is observed: although the number of "wet" days is quite high, the total volume of falling precipitation remains extremely low—only 2–5 mm per month. This means that instead of heavy rains or abundant snowfalls, travellers more often encounter light frost or light snow.

Since sub-zero temperatures persist for most of the year (from October to May), the main type of precipitation is snow. The most frequent month in this regard is January, when about 14 days with precipitation are recorded. In spring, especially in May, the number of such days drops to a minimum—averaging about 8 days, making this month relatively dry by local standards.

In the summer period, from June to September, when the thermometer rises above freezing, rains replace the snow. The "wettest" month by volume of precipitation is September (up to 5 mm), while July leads in frequency of rain (about 13 rainy days). Nevertheless, even in summer, precipitation is short-lived and weak in character, so it rarely becomes a serious hindrance to walking around this picturesque corner of Greenland.

When setting off for Maniitsoq, it is important to remember that the climate here is harsh, and even in summer, the weather resembles late autumn in temperate latitudes. The main principle when packing your suitcase is layering. At any time of the year, the foundation of your wardrobe should be high-quality thermal underwear and a warming middle layer of fleece or wool. For winter trips, when the temperature often drops below -15°C, a warm windproof parka, insulated trousers, a reliable hat, and mittens are necessary.

Summer in Greenland is cool: in July and August, the air warms up on average only to +7...+8°C. Therefore, instead of light clothing, you should take a windbreaker, thick trousers, and sweaters. Given that wet days happen regularly (about 10–13 days a month), be sure to put a waterproof jacket or raincoat in your luggage, as well as comfortable trekking boots with non-slip soles for walking on rocky terrain.

Despite the cold, the sun in these latitudes can be very active, especially due to the reflection of rays off the snow and ice. Be sure to take sunglasses with a high level of UV protection and sunscreen to protect your face from windburn and sunburn. Also, a thick scarf or buff will not be amiss to protect your neck from the piercing wind during sea excursions or hikes.