Weather in Kiruna

Find out what weather awaits you in the city of Kiruna right now. In this section, we have compiled the latest data and detailed forecasts to help you plan your time more effectively.

The climate in Kiruna can be described as subarctic, which is quite expected for a city located in the north of Sweden, above the Arctic Circle. The weather here dictates its own rules: winters are long, snowy, and frosty, while summers are short and rather cool. This destination is ideal for those who wish to experience the true breath of the Arctic and enjoy the rugged beauty of northern nature.

The seasons are very clearly defined. The winter period lasts for most of the year, with stable sub-zero temperatures that average around -12°C in January and February. Summer arrives late and is characterised by mildness: even in July, the warmest month, the average temperature is about +13°C, and the air rarely warms up above +17°C. This time of year offers travellers comfortable coolness instead of the exhausting heat typical of southern resorts.

It is worth noting that the weather in Kiruna can be quite changeable. The number of days with precipitation remains consistently high throughout the year (from 9 to 17 days per month), although the precipitation itself is often moderate. In winter, the city is covered in a thick blanket of snow, while frequent but not too heavy rains are possible in summer. When packing for your trip, be sure to pay attention to warm and waterproof clothing, as even summer nights here can be chilly.

The climate in Kiruna can be characterised as subarctic, with a long snowy winter and a short cool summer. The coldest month of the year is January with an average temperature of -12.1°C, while night frosts often reach -14.8°C and below. February and December are also distinguished by their severe nature, keeping the thermometer in the range of -10°C to -14°C. This is a time of a true northern fairytale, requiring travellers to prepare thoroughly and wear warm gear.

The summer season here is mild and refreshing, without sweltering heat, which makes nature walks particularly pleasant. July is traditionally considered the warmest month: the average temperature is about 13.1°C, and on the finest days, the air warms up to a comfortable 16.7°C. June and August are slightly cooler, with average values around 10–11°C. Summer weather in this part of Sweden is often changeable, so even in July, one should not forget a light jacket.

Transitional seasons in Kiruna are rapid. Already in October, the average temperature drops below zero (-1.1°C), marking the beginning of frosts, and spring warming arrives only in May, when indicators become positive (about 3.3°C). Daily temperature fluctuations are not too extreme — the difference between the daily maximum and nightly minimum is usually 4–7 degrees, however, even a small drop in temperature in the evening is felt quite sharply due to the city's northern location.

Precipitation in Kiruna has a distinct seasonal character, directly linked to the harsh subarctic climate of this Swedish city. Since temperatures stay below zero for most of the year, a significant portion of precipitation falls as snow. The snow cover here is stable and forms the famous winter landscapes of Lapland. In winter, especially in January and February, snowfalls occur frequently (up to 14 days with precipitation per month), but they are rarely heavy in volume, creating a constant light veil of snow rather than massive drifts.

The wettest period of the year is summer, when the temperature rises above zero and snow is replaced by rain. The peak of rainy days falls on July and August: in these months, precipitation can be observed for up to 16–17 days. Travellers planning a trip at the end of summer should be prepared for frequent drizzle or short rains, so waterproof clothing will be an essential item in your luggage.

The "driest" time of the year can be called mid-spring. April is characterised by the fewest number of days with precipitation (on average about 9 days), which makes this month relatively stable for visiting, although the temperature still remains below freezing. By October, the cycle closes: the rains characteristic of September give way to snow, and the city once again plunges into a long winter fairytale.

Travelling to Kiruna requires careful wardrobe preparation, as this city is located above the Arctic Circle, and the weather here is harsh. The main principle of clothing is layering, especially in the winter period (from November to March), when the temperature often drops below -12°C. Be sure to bring high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a windproof winter parka or down jacket. Do not forget about warm accessories: a thick hat, scarf, and mittens (they retain heat better than gloves) are vital for comfortable walks in the frost.

Summer in this region of Sweden is cool and fresh, with average temperatures around +10...+13°C, so even in July, you are unlikely to need shorts and tank tops. Instead, pack long trousers, a light jacket, and a windbreaker. Considering that the number of days with precipitation remains high all year round (up to 17 days in August), waterproof outerwear and a reliable raincoat will be useful in any season. An umbrella may be useless due to the wind, so it is better to prefer clothing with a hood.

Pay special attention to footwear: in winter, these should be insulated boots with thick non-slip soles, and in summer — comfortable trekking trainers for walking on rough terrain. Despite the cold climate, the sun can be active, especially in spring when rays reflect off the snow-white cover, so sunglasses and SPF cream will be just as useful as a warm scarf. If you plan long night excursions to observe the Northern Lights, bring chemical hand and foot warmers — they will help you enjoy the spectacle outdoors for longer.