Climate and monthly weather forecast
Kotka, Finland

Located in Finland, Kotka's climatological conditions primarily fall into the Dfb category of the Köppen climate classification. This classification translates into a humid continental climate, defined by the absence of a dry season and a warm summer. This pattern proves consistent across the year, despite some variations in climatic parameters on a monthly basis.

Throughout the year, sea temperatures vary from a low of -0.2°C (31.6°F) to a high of 18.9°C (66°F), with fluctuations happening distinctly according to the changing seasons. On the other hand, daylight hours oscillate from a scant 5.9 hours in the darkest months to a bright and long 18.9 hours in the sunniest part of the year.

Remarkably, one element that signifies the unique climatic parameters of Kotka is the substantial difference between sea temperature during different seasons. The sea temperature shifts from chilly -0.2°C (31.6°F) in February and March to a comfortable 18.9°C (66°F) in July, showing a considerable range across these months.

Considering the monthly averages of climatic parameters, it appears that the best period to travel to Kotka falls between June and August. This span forms the warmest part of the year with sea temperatures peaking at an agreeable 18.9°C (66°F) in July. Additionally, the period is characterized by extended daylight hours, often stretching up to 18.1 hours in June. These conditions support outdoor activities and touring, historically drawing a higher frequency of visitors during these months.

Contrastingly, the coldest months, mainly from November to March, might not offer the most welcoming conditions for visitors. During these months, sea temperatures plummet to lows of -0.2°C (31.6°F), and daylight hours typically hover around 6.7 hours in December, nearly a third of what is observed in June. The frigid sea temperatures and limited sunlight can inhibit outdoor activities, making it less attractive to visitors in these months.

Spring in Kotka is a time of transition. From April to June, the area witnesses a steady rise in sea temperatures from 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 13.5°C (56.3°F). Simultaneously, daylight also increases significantly during this period, extending from 11.8 hours to 18.9 hours in June. As winter recedes and summer beckons, Kotka experiences a palpable change in its climatic conditions.

Kotka experiences its warmest weather in the summer months between July and September. Sea temperatures reach a high of 18.9°C (66°F) in July and gradually start to decrease in September. The ample daylight hours from 15.6 hours to 12.9 hours facilitate various outdoor activities and experiences making summer an attractive season for visitors.

Autumn brings a noticeable shift in weather conditions in Kotka. The period from October to November sees sea temperatures drop from a comfortable 10.2°C (50.4°F) to a colder 3.3°C (37.9°F). Concurrently, the daylight also decreases considerably from 10.1 hours to 5.9 hours. The decreasing temperatures and dwindling daylight hours signal the change in season and the onset of colder months.

Winter in Kotka typically runs from December to March, characterized by freezing sea temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The sea temperature drops to as low as -0.2°C (31.6°F) in February and March, making it the coldest period of the year. Correspondingly, daylight hours decrease to 5.9 hours in December, further accentuating the coldness of the winter months.

In Kotka, Finland, January possesses elements of a harsh winter with limited daylight. Sea temperature reaches its yearly low, recording an average of 0.4°C (32.7°F), indicative of the cold wintertime conditions. Compared to December, the days become increasingly longer yet still hold a rather brief span of sunlight. Weather in January »

The weather in February shows a subtle transition from January’s extreme winter conditions. Marginally longer daylight hours and a slight rise in sea temperatures mark the shift toward spring, though winter's icy grip remains apparent. Weather in February »

March in Kotka witnesses a significant uplift from the bleak winter months of January and February. Daylight hours increase to an average of 11.8 hours, signaling the commencement of the spring season. The sea temperatures, though still freezing, hint at the upcoming thaw. Weather in March »

April in Kotka sees a significant change in meteorological conditions compared to March. The transition from the chilly, spring weather is marked by a rise in sea temperatures, with an average of 1.6°C (34.9°F). The increase in daylight hours is encouraging, promoting outdoor activities as the grip of winter finally loosens. Weather in April »

The weather in Kotka during May reveals a full-fledged spring. Daylight hours extend significantly, and sea temperatures continue to rise, averaging an inviting 7.1°C (44.8°F). The increased sunlight and warmth encourage the full bloom of flowers, transforming the city into a vibrant, blooming spectacle. Weather in May »

June marks the arrival of summer in Kotka, with soaring sea temperatures and extended daylight hours. An average sea temperature of 13.5°C (56.3°F) echoes the warm, pleasant conditions seen during the summer months. Days are fostering outdoor recreational activities, and the city is bathed in sunshine. Weather in June »

July showcases the peak of Kotka's summer, with long daylight hours and warm sea temperatures. The temperature of the sea reaches its yearly maximum, averaging at a comfortable 18.9°C (66°F). Residents and visitors alike enjoy the outdoors, with water-based activities being a widespread choice. Weather in July »

The transition from July to August in Kotka is subtle, with similar climatic conditions persisting. August experiences nearly the same sea temperatures, averaging 18.8°C (65.8°F). Despite a mild reduction in daylight hours, the warm weather continues to invite outdoor ventures. Weather in August »

September signifies the beginning of fall in Kotka, with a noticeable decline in daylight hours and falling sea temperatures. The sea temperatures drop to an average of 14.9°C (58.8°F), introducing cooler weather into the city. Weather in September »

October in Kotka is characterized by a cool, autumnal climate as the city transitions deeper into the fall season. Compared to September, the daylight hours further shortens and the sea temperatures continue their downward trend. Weather in October »

As November arrives in Kotka, winter's approach grows more apparent. The reduced daylight hours and dipping sea temperatures underscore the transition into the colder, darker months. The city's scenery adapts to these changes, trading its vibrant autumn colors for a monochrome winter palette. Weather in November »

Concluding the year, December brings the onset of winter in Kotka, with drastically reduced daylight hours and plummeting sea temperatures. The sea temperatures sink to 3.3°C (37.9°F), a stark difference from the warmth of the summer months. Weather in December »