Oslo, the capital city of Norway, has a unique climate that varies throughout the year.
The warm season in Oslo lasts from late May to early September, with average high temperatures ranging from 62°F to 70°F. July is typically the hottest month, with highs around 70°F and lows around 54°F. This makes summer a pleasant time to explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty.
The cold season in Oslo spans from mid-November to early March.
During this period, average daily high temperatures stay below 37°F, and temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
Winter activities are very popular, with opportunities for skiing and other cold-weather sports in close proximity to the city.
Oslo experiences rainfall throughout the year, though the amount can vary.
Monthly rainfall averages between 1.42 inches and 3.54 inches.
The city endures between 4 and 8 rainy days per month, depending on the season.
Despite the rainy weather, Oslo’s climate allows for a variety of outdoor activities and makes it a fascinating destination no matter the time of year.
For more detailed weather information, you can visit Climates to Travel or Weather Atlas.
Average Temperature in Oslo, Norway
Oslo has distinct seasons with a variety of temperatures throughout the year.
Summer in Oslo lasts from late May to early September.
During these months, the average daily high temperature is above 62°F. July is the warmest month, with typical highs around 70°F and lows near 54°F.
Winter extends from mid-November to early March.
The average high temperature remains below 37°F. January and February are the coldest months, often featuring temperatures below freezing.
Monthly Average Temperatures (°F)
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 28 | 18 |
| February | 30 | 19 |
| March | 37 | 26 |
| April | 50 | 34 |
| May | 60 | 43 |
| June | 67 | 50 |
| July | 70 | 54 |
| August | 69 | 53 |
| September | 60 | 46 |
| October | 49 | 37 |
| November | 37 | 28 |
| December | 30 | 21 |
In Oslo, the average temperature across the year is around 42.7°F.
Seasonal changes are marked, making it important to dress properly for each season.
During spring and autumn, temperatures are mild.
Average highs range from 37°F in March to 60°F in May, and from 60°F in September to 37°F in November.
The coldest month is usually January, making it crucial to prepare for low temperatures.
Summer months are more pleasant, inviting outdoor activities throughout the city.
Weather conditions can vary, so it’s wise to check the forecast before planning activities.
Average Precipitation in Oslo, Norway
Oslo experiences both rainfall and snowfall throughout the year. The city’s climate results in diverse weather conditions, creating varied precipitation patterns depending on the season with significant rainfall in certain months and noticeable snowfall in others.
Average Rainfall in Oslo, Norway
Oslo receives steady rainfall year-round, with significant variation by month.
The wettest month is August, seeing average rainfall of about 3.54 inches. In contrast, February tends to be the driest month, with around 1.42 inches of rain.
Monthly Rainfall:
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.74 |
| February | 1.42 |
| March | 1.81 |
| April | 1.97 |
| May | 2.05 |
| June | 2.76 |
| July | 2.99 |
| August | 3.54 |
| September | 3.11 |
| October | 2.76 |
| November | 2.36 |
| December | 1.97 |
These figures show that while October has considerably higher rainfall, early spring months like March and April tend to be relatively dry.
Average Snow in Oslo, Norway
Winters in Oslo are marked by significant snowfall, especially from November through March.
The city’s snowiest month is typically January with an average snowfall of approximately 19.8 inches. Snowfall significantly impacts daily life and travel in the city during winter.
Monthly Snowfall:
| Month | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| November | 10.0 |
| December | 13.5 |
| January | 19.8 |
| February | 15.2 |
| March | 12.0 |
These measurements highlight the substantial amount of snow during winter months, with December and February also seeing notable snowfall. By contrast, the summer months see little to no snow, focusing instead on rainfall.
For information on snow and ice conditions, readers can explore Snow and Ice.
Average Sun in Oslo, Norway
Oslo experiences variations in sunshine hours throughout the year due to its geographical location. The city receives ample daylight during summer months but significantly less sunlight in winter.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Oslo, Norway
Oslo’s average daily shortwave solar energy varies widely from season to season.
During the summer, daily shortwave solar energy peaks, providing long hours of sunshine and daylight. In contrast, winter months have notably shorter days and limited sunlight.
| Month | Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.5 |
| February | 1.1 |
| March | 2.8 |
| April | 4.4 |
| May | 5.3 |
| June | 5.8 |
| July | 5.5 |
| August | 4.6 |
| September | 3.2 |
| October | 1.5 |
| November | 0.8 |
| December | 0.4 |
During the peak summer month of June, Oslo experiences around 5.8 kWh/m² of solar energy per day. Meanwhile, in December, this drops significantly to about 0.4 kWh/m² daily due to the limited hours of sunshine.
These variations highlight the differences in sunlight Oslo receives throughout the year, influencing daily life and activities. The summer months are perfect for outdoor activities, while the winter months require adaptive practices due to restricted daylight.
Average Humidity in Oslo, Norway
Oslo experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. Relative humidity indicates how much moisture is in the air compared to the maximum it can hold at a given temperature.
Typically, the average humidity in Oslo ranges from 60% to 85%.
| Month | Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 85% |
| February | 80% |
| March | 75% |
| April | 70% |
| May | 65% |
| June | 60% |
| July | 60% |
| August | 65% |
| September | 70% |
| October | 75% |
| November | 80% |
| December | 85% |
The winter months, like January and December, tend to have higher humidity levels because cold air holds less moisture, resulting in high relative humidity.
During the summer months, such as June and July, Oslo enjoys lower humidity levels, making the weather more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Dew point is another measure to understand. It indicates the temperature at which air becomes saturated and water vapor begins to condense.
Oslo generally has dew points ranging from 20°F to 45°F, contributing to the comfort or discomfort felt in different seasons.
For more detailed information, consider visiting resources like Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Oslo, Norway and Oslo Climate and Weather Averages.
Average Wind in Oslo, Norway
The wind in Oslo varies throughout the year, with different months experiencing varying wind speeds and directions.
In general, Oslo experiences moderate winds.
The average wind speed ranges from 6 to 11 mph throughout the year. The wind direction also changes, often coming from the west or southwest.
Monthly Average Wind Speed
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 8 |
| February | 9 |
| March | 9 |
| April | 8 |
| May | 7 |
| June | 6 |
| July | 7 |
| August | 7 |
| September | 8 |
| October | 9 |
| November | 9 |
| December | 9 |
The speeds are measured in miles per hour (mph), and these values indicate the typical conditions.
They are higher in winter months, averaging around 9 mph, while summer months see slightly lower averages around 6-7 mph.
Wind Direction
Oslo’s wind primarily comes from the west and southwest. This westerly flow affects the weather patterns, bringing relatively mild air during the year.
Occasionally, there are shifts to other directions, but the predominant westerly winds are consistent.
Understanding the wind patterns in Oslo contributes to better planning for outdoor activities and events.
These wind speeds and directions provide a clear picture of what to expect in different months.
Average Air Quality in Oslo, Norway
The air quality in Oslo varies throughout the year, with different factors affecting visibility and pollution levels.
Oslo experiences its best air quality during the summer months, when warmer temperatures and increased rainfall help to disperse pollutants.
The table below provides an overview of the average air quality index (AQI) by month.
| Month | AQI (US Scale) | Visibility (Miles) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 45 | 9.2 |
| February | 48 | 9.1 |
| March | 52 | 9.0 |
| April | 50 | 9.3 |
| May | 40 | 9.5 |
| June | 35 | 9.7 |
| July | 30 | 9.8 |
| August | 32 | 9.6 |
| September | 37 | 9.4 |
| October | 44 | 9.2 |
| November | 46 | 8.9 |
| December | 49 | 8.8 |
During winter, lower temperatures and limited precipitation can increase the concentration of pollutants. This can affect visibility and lead to higher AQI readings.
Regular monitoring shows a generally good level of air quality.
The Norwegian Environment Agency provides regular updates and measurements.
Residents and visitors are often advised to check daily air quality reports, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Efforts to improve air quality in Oslo include promoting public transportation and reducing vehicle emissions.
Topography of Oslo, Norway
Oslo is known for its diverse and striking topography. The city is situated at the head of the Oslofjord, a deep inlet of the Skagerrak Strait.
The fjord itself extends about 63 miles inland from the coast, providing picturesque views and unique geographic features.
The elevation in Oslo varies greatly.
- Downtown Oslo sits near sea level.
- Surrounding areas can rise up to 1,300 feet.
These variations contribute to the city’s unique character.
Oslo is surrounded by hills and forests. These natural features are a part of Oslomarka, which is a large, forested area. It offers numerous hiking, skiing, and recreational opportunities.
Table of Elevations Around Oslo:
| Area | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Downtown | ~0 |
| Holmenkollen | 1,200 |
| Grefsenkollen | 1,300 |
The city’s positioning on the fjord and its forested surroundings make it a haven for nature lovers.
While the lowlands near the fjord are highly urbanized, the higher elevations offer serene and green landscapes.
Unique to Oslo is the combination of urban spaces and natural landscapes, providing a balanced environment for its residents.
Travel up the hills, and one may encounter panoramic views encompassing the city, fjord, and forests.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway can experience some harsh and extreme weather events.
In the winter months, temperatures can plummet to freezing levels. For example, in Kautokeino, a city in Norway, temperatures once fell to an astonishing -43.5 degrees Celsius, equivalent to -46.3 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a clue of how cold it can get during harsh winters.
Schools in Oslo sometimes close due to heavy snowfall. Snow depths can reach significant levels, making travel and daily activities difficult.
The summer heat can also be intense. The highest recorded temperature in Oslo was 34.6 degrees Celsius, or 94.3 degrees Fahrenheit, on July 27, 2018. This kind of heat can be quite unusual for a place known for its cooler climate.
January
- Average Low Temperature: 19°F
- Extreme Event: Intense snowstorms
July
- Record High Temperature: 94.3°F
- Extreme Event: Heatwaves
These extreme weather events highlight the vast range of conditions Oslo can experience throughout the year. This variability can affect daily life in significant ways, from clothing choices to transportation. Whether dealing with freezing winters or potentially sweltering summers, residents and visitors need to be prepared for the unexpected.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Oslo, Norway
Oslo offers a unique experience in each season, from mild springs to crisp autumns. Depending on the time of year, visitors can enjoy everything from vibrant festivals to tranquil nature walks.
What is Oslo, Norway Like in Spring
Spring in Oslo, typically from April to May, sees temperatures rising from 30°F to 50°F. The days start to lengthen, giving more daylight hours to explore the city.
Cherry blossoms and green foliage begin to bloom across parks and gardens. Activities like hiking and biking become popular as trails thaw.
The weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers. It’s advisable to pack layers and a waterproof jacket. The best time to visit during spring is late May when temperatures are more consistent.
What is Oslo, Norway Like in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is known for its pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This is peak tourist season due to the warm climate.
Activities such as swimming in the Oslofjord and hiking in nearby forests are popular. The city hosts various festivals, including music and food fairs.
Accommodation can be expensive and harder to find, so booking in advance is recommended. The tourism score is high during this period, making it the best time to visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Here’s a quick look at average summer temperatures:
| Month | Avg High Temp (°F) | Avg Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| June | 64 | 50 |
| July | 72 | 55 |
| August | 70 | 54 |
What is Oslo, Norway Like in Fall
Fall in Oslo, from September to October, showcases the city in stunning fall colors. Temperatures drop to between 45°F and 60°F.
The air is crisp and clean, making it a perfect time for scenic drives and nature walks. As autumn approaches, the city sees fewer tourists, providing a more peaceful experience.
Rain is more frequent, so it’s wise to carry an umbrella. This period is also the best time for photographers to capture Oslo’s natural beauty.
What is Oslo, Norway Like in Winter
Winter, from November to March, transforms Oslo into a snowy wonderland.
Temperatures can drop below freezing, averaging around 28°F.
Skiing, both downhill and cross-country, is a major attraction during this season.
The city also has charming Christmas markets that offer festive activities.
Despite the cold, winter is the best time for snow activities and enjoying the city’s cozy cafes.
Staying warm requires proper winter gear and layering.
| Month | Avg High Temp (°F) | Avg Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| November | 37 | 28 |
| December | 32 | 23 |
| January | 30 | 19 |
| February | 32 | 21 |
| March | 36 | 26 |
Each season in Oslo offers unique experiences, making it a versatile destination for any time of the year.