The climate of Iceland presents a unique blend of conditions, often surprising visitors who expect extreme cold given its name and high latitude. This island nation experiences variable weather, influenced by its oceanic location. Its climate is generally milder than many other regions at similar northern latitudes.
Major Influences on Iceland’s Climate
Iceland’s climate is shaped by several natural forces. The primary influence comes from the North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream, which carries warm ocean water from the Caribbean. This current moderates the island’s temperatures, preventing them from becoming as cold as locations at comparable latitudes, such as Greenland. A branch, the Irminger Current, specifically warms the waters around Iceland’s southern and western coasts.
The island’s high latitude, just south of the Arctic Circle, means it receives cold winds from the North Pole, creating a contrast with the warming ocean currents. This interaction between warm Atlantic and cold Arctic air results in highly variable weather, with conditions changing rapidly.
Furthermore, a persistent low-pressure system known as the Icelandic Low, located between Iceland and southern Greenland, contributes to frequent cyclone activity and strong winter winds over the North Atlantic. This system drives regional wind patterns and atmospheric circulation.
Defining Features of Iceland’s Climate
Iceland experiences mild winters and cool summers, a result of its oceanic influences. Average winter temperatures in Reykjavik, located in the south, typically range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), rarely dropping below -10°C (14°F) in coastal areas. Summer temperatures are cool, with averages in July and August ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), though occasionally reaching up to 20°C (68°F) on warmer days. The annual average temperature in Reykjavik is around 5°C (41°F).
Precipitation is common year-round, often occurring as rain or drizzle, especially along the south coast. The southern parts of the country generally receive more rainfall, with Reykjavik getting about 850 mm (34 inches) of rain or snow annually. Snowfall is frequent in winter, particularly from October to April, with the heaviest accumulation typically seen between late December and February. However, snow rarely remains on the ground for extended periods in southern coastal areas.
Wind is a defining characteristic of Iceland’s climate, often making temperatures feel colder than they are. Strong winds and stormy weather are common due to the convergence of mild Atlantic and cold Arctic air masses. Wind speeds can reach 18 meters per second (65 km/h) on 10 to 20 days per year in lowlands, and over 50 days per year in the highlands.
Daylight hours vary significantly across the seasons due to Iceland’s high latitude. In summer, particularly from late May to early August, the country experiences the “Midnight Sun,” with nearly 24 hours of daylight, especially in areas closer to the Arctic Circle like Grimsey Island. Conversely, winter brings very short days, with only 4 to 5 hours of daylight in December. This significant seasonal shift in daylight influences daily life and natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights, which are best observed during the long, dark winter nights.
Regional Climate Differences Across Iceland
Iceland’s climate exhibits regional variations. Coastal areas, particularly in the south, are milder and wetter due to the North Atlantic Current. Reykjavik, located on the southwest coast, experiences these milder conditions and higher precipitation.
The interior highlands, characterized by a tundra climate, are colder and receive more snow. Temperatures can drop well below freezing in these elevated areas. While the highlands experience more snow, low-lying inland areas in the north are often the driest parts of the country.
Differences also exist between the north and south. The south coast is generally warmer, wetter, and windier. In contrast, the north experiences colder winters with more consistent snow cover, and summers that can be warmer but shorter. For example, Akureyri in the north is typically cooler than Reykjavik because it receives less direct warming from the Gulf Stream.
Common Misconceptions About Iceland’s Climate
A common misconception about Iceland’s climate, stemming from its name, is that it is perpetually covered in ice and extremely cold year-round. However, its climate is mild for its high latitude, largely due to the North Atlantic Current. Temperatures in winter, especially in coastal regions, are often comparable to or even milder than those in many parts of North America or mainland Europe.
The name “Iceland” is thought to have originated from a Viking explorer who encountered drift ice in a fjord during a harsh winter, or perhaps as a strategic naming choice to deter other settlers. While glaciers cover about 11% of the country, much of Iceland is characterized by green landscapes, especially in summer. Despite the “ice” in its name, the climate rarely reaches the extreme low temperatures associated with truly polar regions like much of Greenland.