Weather in Qeqertaq

Be prepared for any whims of nature when setting off for Qeqertaq. Below you will find the freshest weather information, detailed forecasts, and useful charts for planning your trip.

Qeqertaq, located in Greenland, is distinguished by a severe Arctic climate. This region is characterized by long, frosty winters and very short, cool summers. Travellers should be prepared for the fact that sub-zero temperatures prevail here for most of the year, forming classic landscapes of snow-covered tundra.

Seasonal fluctuations are quite clearly defined, although the concept of "warmth" here is relative. The most comfortable time for a visit is considered to be summer, especially July, when the air can warm up to +11°C. Winters here are truly Northern: in January and February, average indicators drop to -17°C, and night frosts often exceed the -20°C mark.

A specific feature of the local climate is the extremely low amount of precipitation in millimetres, which technically likens this area to Arctic deserts. However, despite the low volume of moisture, the number of days with precipitation (mainly in the form of snow) remains stable throughout the year. When planning a trip, be sure to take care of high-quality warm and windproof clothing, regardless of the season.

The settlement of Qeqertaq lies in the grip of a harsh Arctic climate, where freezing temperatures prevail for the majority of the year. Winter here is long and frosty, requiring serious preparation for the cold. The coldest month of the year is February, when the average temperature drops to -17.5°C, and night frosts often surpass the -20°C mark. January and March are also distinguished by severe conditions, keeping the thermometer reading on average around -15°C.

Summer in this region of Greenland is very short and cool, so one should not expect the usual heat. The "hottest" time is considered to be July, but even in this month, the average temperature is only +8.2°C, and maximum daytime figures rarely exceed +11.2°C. In June and August, the air warms up even less — on average to +4...+6°C. Such weather feels like a bracing chill, so warm clothing is necessary for tourists all year round.

Daily temperature fluctuations in Qeqertaq are not very significant: the difference between the daytime maximum and the nighttime minimum is usually just 3–5 degrees. Transitional seasons arrive rapidly: already in October, a stable "minus" sets in, which holds until May. The annual temperature range is large and varies from deep winter freezes to modest summer values above zero, which forms the unique polar character of the local weather.

The climate in Qeqertaq is distinguished by typical Arctic features: the total amount of precipitation here is extremely low, yet overcast weather is a frequent occurrence. Throughout the year, the level of falling moisture holds at minimal marks of 1–2 mm per month, which effectively makes this region very dry, resembling a polar desert.

Due to low temperatures for most of the year, from October to May, precipitation falls exclusively in the form of snow. The winter months, especially February and March, are considered the period with the lowest frequency of precipitation: it snows on average about 6 days a month. Usually, these are not heavy snowfalls, but a light snow dust or frost, characteristic of Greenland's severe winters.

In summer, the situation changes slightly. July and August are the "wettest" months in terms of weather frequency, when the number of days with precipitation reaches 10–11. At this time, when the temperature rises above zero, a fine drizzle often falls instead of snow. However, even during this period, heavy downpours are practically excluded, so a high-quality waterproof jacket will reliably protect you during walks.

A journey to Qeqertaq requires thorough preparation, as the climate here is harsh and Arctic. The main principle when choosing clothes is layering, which will allow you to regulate heat exchange depending on your activity and the changeable weather. The foundation of your wardrobe should be high-quality thermal underwear (preferably Merino wool), over which a fleece jacket or dense wool sweater is worn. In the winter months, when the temperature drops below -17°C and frosts can reach -20°C, a warm down parka with a hood that protects against piercing wind, and insulated trousers, are mandatory.

Even if you are planning a trip in summer, do not count on heat: the average temperature in July and August hovers around +6...+8°C. During this period, instead of a heavy winter down jacket, it is better to take a windproof and waterproof jacket (membrane), since, despite the small volume of precipitation, the number of wet days increases in summer. Be sure to take care of comfortable trekking shoes with thick soles: they must be waterproof, warm, and provide good grip on the surface.

Do not forget important accessories that are relevant in Greenland practically all year round: a warm hat covering the ears, a scarf or neck gaiter, as well as reliable gloves. Special attention should be paid to sun protection: the ice and snow cover reflect the sun's rays perfectly, so sunglasses with a high level of UV protection and face cream are necessary even in cold weather to avoid burns and vision problems.