Climate Characteristics of Latvia

Latvia features a temperate maritime climate that transitions into a continental climate as you move further inland. Positioned on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, the country’s weather is a constant tug-of-war between mild, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean and cold, dry air masses from northern Russia and the Arctic.

Core Climatic Features

• Moderate Maritime Influence: The Baltic Sea keeps the coastal areas (like Liepāja) milder in winter and cooler in summer compared to the eastern provinces.

• High Humidity and Cloud Cover: Latvia is characterized by high levels of humidity and frequent overcast skies; the sun is a rare sight during the late autumn and winter months.

• Four Distinct Seasons: Unlike tropical regions, Latvia has four very clearly defined seasons of roughly equal length, each with dramatic changes in landscape and light.

• Daylight Variation: Due to its northern latitude, Latvia experiences "White Nights" in June with nearly 18 hours of daylight, whereas December is marked by darkness, with only about 6 hours of light.

Precipitation Patterns and Regional Differences

Precipitation in Latvia is frequent and occurs throughout the year, with an annual average between 600 mm and 850 mm.

• Coastal vs. Inland: The coastal regions are windier and receive more moisture from the Baltic Sea. However, the eastern highlands (Vidzeme) often receive higher annual precipitation because the rising terrain forces air masses to release moisture.

• The Wettest Months: Statistically, late summer (July and August) is the wettest period due to heavy convective rain and thunderstorms, though autumn is the cloudiest and most consistently drizzly.

• Snow Cover: Snow is a staple of Latvian winters. While coastal snow may melt quickly, the eastern part of the country typically maintains a stable snow cover for 80 to 120 days a year.

Detailed Seasonal Breakdown

• Spring (March – May): Spring arrives slowly and is often the driest season. While March still feels like winter with ice melting on the rivers, May brings blooming landscapes and much milder days. Temperatures typically range from 0°C to 15°C.

• Summer (June – August): Generally mild and pleasant, though often humid. This is the peak of the rainy season, with sudden thunderstorms interspersed with sunny periods. Temperatures range from 13°C to 23°C, though occasional heatwaves can push the mercury above 30°C.

• Autumn (September – November): The transition to winter is marked by wind, rain, and frequent fog. The colorful "Golden Autumn" in October is beautiful but short-lived, quickly turning into grey, damp November. Temperatures range from 4°C to 14°C.

• Winter (December – February): Characterized by stable sub-zero temperatures and snow. The coldest month is usually February, and the lack of sunlight combined with high humidity can make the cold feel quite piercing. Temperatures range from -7°C to -1°C, though cold snaps can drop temperatures to -20°C.