Šiauliai

Climate Characteristics of Šiauliai

General Overview

Šiauliai is situated in the transition zone between the Zemgale plain and the central Lithuanian uplands. Its climate is temperate-continental, frequently influenced by air masses from the Baltic Sea (approx. 120 km away). Consequently, winters tend to be snowier and colder than on the coast, while summers are fresh and very comfortable.

Temperatures and Daily Variations

In summer, daytime temperatures average between 22°C and 24°C (72-75°F). In winter, average daytime temperatures are around -3°C (27°F), dropping to -9°C (16°F) or lower at night. Due to its northern location, temperatures here can be 2-3 degrees lower than in southern Lithuania during winter cold snaps.

Precipitation Seasons (June-August and November)

Summer is the wettest season, with afternoon showers and thunderstorms. In winter, snow is very common and stays on the ground for long periods, giving the Hill of Crosses a powerful and dramatic appearance under a white blanket.

Weather in Šiauliai by Month

January

The coldest month. -4°C (25°F) daytime and -10°C (14°F) at night. The city is usually covered in deep snow. The air is freezing and dry, and skies are often grey, with occasional brilliant freezing sunny days.

February

Cold and snowy winter. -3°C (27°F) daytime. Snow depth is at its peak. Northern and eastern winds can be very strong, making the cold feel much more intense.

March

Start of gradual thawing. 3°C (37°F) daytime. Sun begins to warm and snow disappears from the streets. Nights remain very cold, but the air starts to feel spring-like in the afternoon.

April

Spring awakens rapidly. 11°C (52°F) daytime. Snow disappears completely and vegetation sprouts. Weather is volatile—warm days can alternate with cold rain or occasional late snow flurries.

May

The most pleasant month for visiting. 17°C (63°F) daytime. Clear skies and peak blooming. Ideal for walking along the city's famous pedestrian boulevard.

June

Start of summer and "White Nights." 21°C (70°F) daytime. Days are very long and the city is vibrant. A warm month where summer showers and thunderstorms cool the air.

July

The warmest month. 24°C (75°F) daytime and 13°C (55°F) at night. Sunny and very warm days. Peak time for outdoor activities. Heavy but short rain showers may occur.

August

Continuation of warm summer. 23°C (73°F) daytime. Nights start to cool but days remain summery. Toward the end of the month, rainfall increases and morning air becomes more humid.

September

Golden and clear autumn. 16°C (61°F) daytime. Blue skies return and the air becomes crisp. Autumn colors appear in the parks, and visibility across the open lands is at its best.

October

Significant cooling to 9°C (48°F) daytime. Days shorten and become greyer and rainier. A windy month with a classic autumn atmosphere.

November

Dark and grey month. 3°C (37°F) daytime. Almost no sunshine and high humidity. Cold rains and mists are the main features. Chance of first snow toward the end of the month.

December

Winter returns. -1°C (30°F) daytime and -6°C (21°F) at night. The city is decorated for Christmas. Fresh snow starts to accumulate, creating a festive, quiet atmosphere.