Weather in Narsarsuaq

Stay updated on the current weather situation in Narsarsuaq to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible. Below you will find fresh data, forecasts, and clear charts for smart trip planning.

The climate where Narsarsuaq is located can be described as subarctic, heavily influenced by the nearby ice sheet and fjords. Even considering the settlement's southern location relative to the rest of the island, the weather here remains quite rugged. Tourists should expect coolness and freshness at any time of year: there is no scorching heat here, and the air is always clean and invigorating.

The seasons change quite vividly, although summer here is very short and cool. During the warmest months—July and August—the average air temperature rarely exceeds +8...+11°C, creating comfortable conditions for hiking but requiring warm clothing. Winter is long and frosty: from November to March, the thermometer consistently stays below zero, dropping on average to -10...-14°C, turning the surroundings into a snowy kingdom.

An interesting feature of the local climate is the stability of weather phenomena throughout the year. Precipitation, whether snow in winter or light rain in summer, falls regularly: the number of days with precipitation varies from 11 to 18 per month. However, its intensity is usually low, though overcast skies and light humidity are frequent companions for travelers in this region.

The climate in this region is severe, which is quite expected for such a northern territory as Greenland. The annual temperature range in the settlement of Narsarsuaq varies from steady frosts in winter to cool freshness in summer. The coldest period is traditionally January and February, when the average air temperature drops to -10.0°C and -11.7°C respectively. The peak of "warmth" falls in July, yet even in the middle of summer, it never gets hot here: average figures hold at the level of +8.3°C.

Winter here is long and frosty. Sub-zero temperatures set in as early as October-November and persist until April. February is considered the harshest month, when night lows reach an average of -14.4°C, and during the day the air warms up only to -9.0°C. Cold weather prevails during this period, requiring serious preparation and special equipment from travelers to protect against low temperatures.

The summer season is characterized by mild but cool weather. In June, July, and August, daytime maximums fluctuate within +8...+11°C, creating comfortable conditions for active leisure without exhausting heat. Significant temperature fluctuations between day and night are not observed: the difference is usually about 3–5 degrees, so even summer nights remain quite fresh, with temperatures around +4...+5°C.

Precipitation in this region has its own unique features: although its total volume in millimeters is extremely small, it falls quite often. When planning a trip to Narsarsuaq, it is worth considering that cloudy weather is not uncommon here. Due to the harsh climate of Greenland, for a significant part of the year, especially from November to April, precipitation falls as snow when the temperature consistently stays below zero.

Interestingly, the summer season is not arid. On the contrary, June is considered the record holder for the frequency of inclement weather—averaging about 18 days with precipitation. However, do not fear heavy downpours: most often it is a light drizzle or brief rain, as the monthly precipitation norm in summer is only 3–4 mm. September and November are statistically the "wettest" months by volume (up to 5 mm), but even these figures are considered low by global standards.

The driest period falls in spring and mid-autumn. From March to May, as well as in October, the amount of precipitation drops to a minimum—about 2 mm per month, and the number of "wet" days decreases to 11. This time can be successful for those who prefer more stable and clear weather for observing Arctic landscapes, although one will still need to dress very warmly.

Traveling to Narsarsuaq requires a careful selection of wardrobe, as the weather here remains cool for most of the year. The main principle to follow when packing is layering. For a winter trip, when the temperature drops below -10°C, be sure to take high-quality thermal base layers, wool sweaters, and a windproof warm parka. Do not forget a hat, scarf, and mittens, as the wind can make staying outdoors less comfortable.

Even if you plan a visit in summer, do not count on heat: the average temperature in July and August hovers around +7...+8°C. In this season, you will need fleece tops, thick trousers, and a light but warm jacket. Since Greenland often has days with precipitation (up to 18 days in June), a waterproof windbreaker or a good raincoat will become your best companions, protecting against dampness and mist better than an umbrella, which may be useless in strong winds.

Pay special attention to footwear: for walking on rough terrain, comfortable, worn-in trekking boots with non-slip soles and moisture protection are necessary. Despite the cold, the sun in these latitudes can be active, especially when rays reflect off snow or water, so be sure to put sunglasses and cream with SPF in your suitcase. Tourists are also recommended to carry a small backpack for spare clothes to adjust the number of layers depending on the changeable weather during the day.