Weather in Lulea

Planning your day in the city of Luleå? Check out the latest weather information, including current readings and detailed forecasts, to be fully prepared for any conditions.

The climate in Luleå can be described as subarctic, with distinct contrasts between the seasons. Due to the city's northern location, winters here are long, snowy, and frosty, while summers are short but pleasant and moderately warm. Proximity to the water slightly softens temperature fluctuations, making the climate more comfortable compared to the inland areas of northern Sweden.

The coldest period falls in January and February, when the thermometer often drops below -10°C. With the arrival of May, noticeable warming begins, developing into a mild summer: in July, the average daytime temperature reaches a comfortable +20°C. This is the best time to visit if you prefer long daylight hours and outdoor walks without extreme cold.

Precipitation falls regularly in Luleå throughout the year, but its intensity is generally low. The highest number of cloudy days with precipitation is observed in late summer and winter, although prolonged downpours are rare here. Travellers should note that even in summer, the weather can be changeable, so having warm and windproof clothing is useful in any season.

The temperature regime in Luleå is typical for northern Sweden: long frosty winters and short but pleasant summers prevail here. The coldest month of the year is traditionally January, when the average temperature drops to -8.6°C, and at night the air often cools down to -11.2°C. The winter cold persists for quite a long time: steady sub-zero temperatures are observed from November to March, creating the atmosphere of a true winter wonderland.

The summer season brings mild warmth, ideal for those who cannot tolerate sweltering heat. The peak of warming occurs in July: at this time, the average temperature is a comfortable 16.5°C, and during the day, the air warms up to 19.8°C. June and August also delight travellers with moderate readings in the range of 14–15°C, making summer the best time for active outdoor recreation without the risk of overheating.

Throughout the year, there is a significant contrast between seasons, but daily temperature fluctuations in Luleå are not as sharp. The difference between daily highs and nightly lows is usually only 3–5 degrees, ensuring a fairly smooth transition from day to night. Spring and autumn here are cool and fleeting: already in October, the average temperature barely exceeds +3°C, quickly giving way to winter chills.

The nature of precipitation in Luleå is closely linked to the city's northern location and the changing seasons. In winter, when temperatures consistently stay below freezing, precipitation falls exclusively as snow. The snowiest and cloudiest month is December, with an average of 15 days of precipitation recorded. From January to March, the intensity of snowfall decreases slightly, but the snow cover remains stable.

Spring in this region of Sweden is considered the driest period. In April and May, the number of days with precipitation is minimal — only 6–7 days per month, making this an excellent time for those who dislike high humidity. However, as summer approaches, the frequency of rain increases. July and August are fairly rainy months: in August, for example, it can rain for about 14 days, although the total amount of moisture remains moderate.

In autumn, the weather becomes damper and more unstable again. In October, the number of days with precipitation reaches 13, and as temperatures drop, rain begins to give way to wet snow. If you are planning a trip in late summer or autumn, it is recommended to bring waterproof clothing so that frequent, though usually not too heavy, rains do not interfere with walks around the city.

When packing for Luleå, it is important to remember the city's northern location and prepare for the corresponding weather conditions. In winter, when the average temperature drops to -9...-11°C, the main rule becomes layering. Be sure to bring quality thermal underwear, wool sweaters, a warm windproof jacket or down coat, as well as a hat, scarf, and mittens. Pay special attention to footwear: it should be insulated, water-resistant, and have non-slip soles for safe walks on snowy streets.

Summer here is mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures reaching +17...+20°C, however, the weather can be changeable. For a trip in the warm season, it is worth packing light clothes, but be sure to add a fleece jacket and a windbreaker or raincoat to your suitcase, as rainy days happen quite often (up to 12–14 days a month). In spring and autumn, when the temperature hovers around zero, waterproof outerwear and mid-season boots will be absolutely essential.

Regardless of the season, a useful accessory will be sunglasses: in winter they will protect your eyes from the bright light reflecting off the snow, and in summer — from the low sun. It is also recommended to bring moisturizing cream to protect your skin from wind and cold, and a comfortable city backpack for items you might need during the day.