The question of whether Iceland or Greenland is colder often causes confusion, especially since their names suggest the opposite of reality. Both islands are situated in the North Atlantic, bordering the Arctic Circle. Despite this geographical proximity, the two landmasses exhibit dramatically different climates. These differences arise from a complex interplay of ocean currents, continental-scale ice coverage, and distinct geographical formations. Greenland is overwhelmingly the colder of the two, shaped by Arctic conditions, while Iceland benefits from a significant moderating influence.
The Defining Role of Ocean Currents
The primary reason for Iceland’s milder climate is the influence of the North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream. This warm current transports heat from the tropical Atlantic northeastward toward Europe. The current flows along Iceland’s southern and western coasts, releasing warmth into the atmosphere. This maritime influence keeps Iceland’s coastal temperatures relatively moderate year-round and prevents significant sea ice formation.
In contrast, Greenland is predominantly affected by cold currents carrying water and ice directly from the Arctic. The East Greenland Current flows south along the eastern coast, bringing frigid polar water and large fields of sea ice. This current wraps around the southern tip to form the West Greenland Current, interacting with the cold Labrador Current. This circulation pattern isolates Greenland from warmer influences, resulting in a far colder climate and making much of its coastline difficult to navigate.
Geographical Differences and Ice Sheet Influence
Beyond the ocean’s influence, the physical geography of the two islands dictates a significant temperature disparity. Greenland is home to the massive Greenland Ice Sheet, covering over 80% of its landmass. This is the second largest body of ice in the world. This ice sheet reaches elevations of over 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) in the interior. Since temperature decreases with altitude, the sheer elevation creates an extremely cold, high-altitude desert environment across the interior.
Iceland, conversely, is a volcanic island with a much lower overall elevation. While it features several large glaciers, these cover only about 11% of the country. There is no continental-scale ice sheet to impose a permanent, high-altitude freeze. The lack of a vast, elevated ice mass allows warmer air from the North Atlantic to circulate more effectively across the island, preventing the extreme interior cold found in Greenland.
Temperature Statistics and Climate Zones
The differences in ocean currents and geography result in substantially different temperature profiles. Iceland’s coastal areas, such as Reykjavik, experience relatively mild winters, with average January temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F). Summers are cool, with average high temperatures reaching 14°C (57°F). These conditions place most of Iceland in a Subpolar Oceanic Climate (Köppen classification Cfc).
Greenland exhibits a much harsher climate, with its interior regions falling into the Ice Cap climate (Köppen classification EF). The average annual temperature across Greenland is approximately -2°C (28°F), whereas Iceland’s annual average is significantly warmer at about 5°C (41°F). The coldest parts of the Greenland Ice Sheet can see temperatures drop to -30°C (-22°F) or lower.