Overview
Despite their high latitude, the Lofoten Islands have a temperate oceanic climate. The region experiences relatively mild winters and cool, moist summers. It is famous for its unique light phenomena—the midnight sun in summer (late May to mid-July) and polar night in winter (early December to early January). The landscape features sharp mountain peaks, fishing villages, and open sea, which contribute to frequent, rapidly changing weather patterns.
Temperatures
- Spring (March to May): Temperatures rise slowly, with highs ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F). Snow may linger into April, and May marks the start of the hiking season.
- Summer (June to August): Average highs range from 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F), with long daylight hours. Nights are cool (around 9°C to 12°C / 48°F to 54°F), and rainfall is frequent but often light.
- Autumn (September to November): Temperatures fall from 12°C to 2°C (54°F to 36°F). September can still feel mild, but by November, conditions become colder and stormier.
- Winter (December to February): Average highs are around 0°C to 3°C (32°F to 37°F), and lows can dip to -2°C to -6°C (28°F to 21°F). Snow is common but not extreme, with occasional rain and wind from the sea.
Rainfall
The Lofoten Islands receive significant precipitation year-round, averaging around 1,200–2,000 mm (47–79 inches) annually. Autumn and early winter tend to be the wettest seasons, with frequent cloud cover and short, stormy days.
