Weather in Saqqaq

Be prepared for any of nature's surprises when planning a trip to Saqqaq. In this section, we have collected the most up-to-date weather information for you, including detailed forecasts and charts.

The settlement of Saqqaq is located in a harsh Arctic climate zone, typical of the west coast where Greenland is situated. The weather here dictates its own rules: winters are long and freezing, while summers are very short and cool. Travelers planning a visit should prepare for low temperatures at any time of the year and select their equipment carefully.

The winter season dominates the calendar, stretching from October to May. During the coldest months, January and February, the average temperature drops to -16°C... -18°C, and night frosts often surpass the -20°C mark. The transition to warmth happens slowly: even in May, the air remains freezing, and stable positive temperatures are established only in June.

Summer in this region is cool, with average figures in July around +6°C and maximums rarely exceeding +9°C. A notable feature of the climate is the stable number of days with precipitation (about 9–12 days per month) despite the extremely low total volume. This means that instead of heavy downpours or snowstorms, light drizzle or light snow is more common here, creating a special atmosphere of northern nature.

Weather conditions in the settlement of Saqqaq are determined by its proximity to the Arctic, which is why cold reigns here for most of the calendar year. The harshest month is February: the average temperature drops to -17.9°C, and night frosts often reach the level of -20.5°C. In the period from November to April, the thermometer consistently stays in the negative zone, which requires travelers to have professional warm gear.

The warm season arrives briefly and is distinguished by a very restrained character. The most comfortable conditions are observed in July, when the air warms up on average to +6.2°C, and daily maximums rarely exceed +8.8°C. There is no exhausting heat here; the local summer offers an invigorating freshness, ideal for active walks, but excluding beach leisure.

A characteristic feature of the climate is the small amplitude of daily fluctuations: the difference between day and night figures usually amounts to only 3–5 degrees. Transitional seasons, such as May and September, are characterized by temperatures close to zero and serve as a short buffer between the prolonged frosts and the cool summer.

When planning a journey to Saqqaq, it is worth noting that this region is characterized by a very small volume of precipitation, yet it falls quite regularly. Since for most of the year, from October to May, the air temperature stays below zero, precipitation here is observed mainly in the form of snow. Winter landscapes of Greenland at this time are complemented by frequent, but as a rule, not too heavy snowfalls.

The summer season brings slight changes: when the temperature rises above the freezing mark (from June to September), rain is possible. Interestingly, the peak frequency of precipitation falls on the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. August is the leader in the number of inclement days — on average about 12, however, this is most often light drizzle or brief rain, rather than prolonged downpours.

The "driest" period of the year can be called the end of winter and the beginning of spring. February and March are characterized by the minimum number of days with precipitation — usually no more than 6–7 per month. This time can be the most favorable for those who want to catch clear weather, although travelers should always remember the harsh Arctic climate and dress accordingly.

A trip to Saqqaq requires careful wardrobe preparation, as even in summer coolness reigns here, and in winter — severe frosts. The main principle of equipment in Greenland is layering. As a base layer, be sure to take high-quality thermal underwear that wicks away moisture. Fleece jackets or wool sweaters will serve as the middle layer, and a reliable windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood as the outer layer. For winter months, when the temperature drops below -15°C, a warm down parka, insulated trousers, mittens, and a hat that tightly covers the ears are necessary.

In the summer period, when the air warms up on average to +6°C, do not count on light clothing: the weather here is changeable and windy. You will need durable trekking boots with thick soles and good tread to move comfortably over rocky terrain. Since light precipitation is possible at any time of the year (up to 12 wet days per month), footwear must be waterproof. Do not forget to take several pairs of warm socks with you, preferably made of Merino wool.

Despite the cold climate, the sun in these latitudes can be very active, especially when its rays reflect off snow and ice. Be sure to pack sunglasses with a high level of UV protection and cream with SPF in your luggage. A buff or scarf will also be useful to protect your face from the piercing Arctic wind. If you plan long walks in the fresh air, it would not be superfluous to take a small thermos for hot tea.