The climate of Oslo
Positioned in the southern part of
Norway,
Oslo experiences a Humid continental climate; no dry season, warm summer, according to the Köppen climate classification, symbol Dfb. The climate bears a strong influence of Gulf Stream, thus enjoying a warmer climate than other regions of similar latitude around the world.
For Oslo annually, monthly average temperatures range between -6.8°C (19.8°F) to 21.5°C (70.7°F), showing significant fluctuations as the season change. Moreover, rainfall is experienced all year round, with monthly averages ranging from 36mm (1.42") to 90mm (3.54"). The city endures between 4 and 8 rainy days per month, with the maximum number of rainy days in
August and
November.
The sunlight duration varies from 6.1 hours in
December to 18.7 hours in
June, showcasing a significant variation in daylight duration throughout the year. Sunshine hours also display a similar pattern, varying from 1.1 hours in December to 8.3 hours in June. Sea temperatures hover between 3°C (37.4°F) to 17.9°C (64.2°F), appealing to those who prefer the colder water temperatures.
The UV index, a measure of the level of UV radiation, ranges from 0 in December and
January to 5 in June and
July. Oslo's UV radiation level is moderate, cautioning residents and visitors to guard against potential harm from prolonged exposure to the sun.
The best time to visit Oslo
For visitors, the best time to visit
Oslo is usually between
June and
August. Temperatures during these months range from 15.1°C (59.2°F) to 21.5°C (70.7°F), which is quite pleasant for outdoor activities. The sea temperature is at its highest, around 17.3°C (63.1°F) in June and 17.9°C (64.2°F) in August. These months also provide the longest daylight hours, between 17.9 and 18.7 hours, providing ample opportunity to explore the city's attractions.
The worst time to visit Oslo
The winter season, from
December to
February, is regarded as the least attractive time to visit
Oslo due to the cold temperatures and short daylight hours. The average temperatures plummet to cold levels between -6.8°C (19.8°F) to -0.9°C (30.4°F), and daylight is restricted to between 6.1 and 9.2 hours. Additionally, the sea temperature is at its coldest, dipping to between 3°C (37.4°F) to 4.2°C (39.6°F), making it unsuitable for water-based activities.
Spring weather in Oslo
Spring in
Oslo spans from
March to
May with average temperatures varying from -3.3°C (26.1°F) to 15.8°C (60.4°F). The signs of spring become visible as the months proceed, with temperatures rising gradually from the cold winter. Rainfall is relatively consistent throughout spring, with precipitation totals ranging from 41mm (1.61") to 53mm (2.09"). Daylight hours lengthen significantly, ranging from 11.8 hours in March to 17.2 hours in May.
Summer weather in Oslo
During the summer months of
June to
August,
Oslo's climate becomes quite pleasant. With temperatures ranging from 15.1°C (59.2°F) to 21.5°C (70.7°F) on average, summer offers the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of the Norwegian capital. It is also the wettest season, with rainfall totals ranging from 65mm (2.56") to 89mm (3.5"). However, this is also the season when the city enjoys the most sunshine, with 7.9 to 8.3 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Oslo
Autumn, spanning from
September to
November, sees a gradual decline in temperatures, from 15.1°C (59.2°F) in September to 3.2°C (37.8°F) in November. Rainfall amounts peak in this season, with monthly averages spanning from 84mm (3.31") to 90mm (3.54"). However, daylight hours decrease significantly, from 12.9 hours in September to 7.6 hours in November.
Winter weather in Oslo
Winter in
Oslo extends from
December through
February. During this period, temperatures drop between -6.8°C (19.8°F) to -0.9°C (30.4°F), marking a distinct winter season typical of a Humid continental climate. Rainfall totals vary from 49mm (1.93") to 55mm (2.17"), and the number of daylight hours dips to its lowest, between 6.1 and 9.2 hours. Despite the low temperatures, Oslo’s winter is celebrated for its festive atmosphere, making it a unique time for holidaymakers.
Weather in January
January in
Oslo carries the imprint of a classic Scandinavian winter season, with temperatures regularly plunging below freezing. The city receives merely 1.3 hours of sunshine per day, and the sea temperature drops to 4.2°C (39.6°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February still witnesses the dominance of winter. As the bitter cold persists, weather patterns do not vary significantly from
January. With increased daylight hours, residents and visitors have more time to engage in outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding.
Weather in February » Weather in March
The arrival of
March signals the transition from severe winter conditions to milder spring temperatures. While winter's presence is still perceptible, particularly in nighttime temperatures plunging to -3.3°C (26.1°F), the signs of spring are undeniable with daylight hours increasing to 11.8 hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers in true spring-like conditions in
Oslo as temperatures climb noticeably, reaching averages as high as 9.1°C (48.4°F). Visiting the city in this period affords a delightful experience, with the natural landscape covered in spring bulbs and greenery.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May witnesses the full bloom of spring, with warmer temperatures ranging from a low of 6.5°C (43.7°F) to a high of 15.8°C (60.4°F). Consequently, outdoor activities become more enjoyable as the greening parks and bustling waterfront areas teem with locals and tourists.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June ushers in the summer season in
Oslo, with an average high temperature of 20.4°C (68.7°F). While enjoying the 18.7 hours of daylight, residents and visitors can often be found sunbathing in parks or savouring iced coffee in sidewalk cafés.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July represents the pinnacle of summer, with temperatures peaking at an average of 21.5°C (70.7°F). Along with the climatic high, sea temperatures rise to their warmest, reaching 17.3°C (63.1°F), paving the way for swimming and other water sports in the Oslofjord.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Even though
August signals the end of summer, the weather maintains a relatively high average of 20.1°C (68.2°F). The retreat of summer ushers in a slightly cooler but still comfortable atmosphere. Nature lovers often seize this month to explore
Oslo's scenic hiking trails, taking advantage of the reduced crowds.
Weather in August »Weather in September
With the arrival of
September, temperatures start to recede, signifying the onset of autumn. Despite sea temperatures cooling down to 15.4°C (59.7°F), the
Oslo harbor remains a bustling hotspot. The unexpected vibrancy of autumn foliage enhances the cityscape, offering spectacular views from lookout points like the Holmenkollen Ski Jump.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees a marked change in
Oslo's weather as autumn progresses. The comfortably warm days of summer are replaced by crisp afternoons with a chill in the air. Although the weather promotes indoor activities, many embrace the change and venture outdoors to experience the mesmerizing autumn color spectacle.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Oslo is characterized by the transition from autumn to early winter. The cityscape transforms as leaf-bearing trees don barren look, symbolizing the arrival of winter. Despite the chill and decreasing daylight hours, locals find innovative ways to enjoy the city, with many cultural and entertainment events scheduled indoors.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December wraps up the year with a prominent winter feel in
Oslo. The dropping temperatures, which reach lows of -5.6°C (21.9°F), combined with a brief 6.1 hours of daylight, create a truly authentic winter atmosphere. Despite the chilly conditions, the city's festive lights and holiday markets add warmth and cheer.
Weather in December »