UmeƄ
Climate Characteristics of Umeå
Gateway to the Far North
Umeå is located about 600 km north of Stockholm, near the Gulf of Bothnia. This northern latitude changes everything: winter is long and snowy, while summer features near-eternal daylight. Despite the north, proximity to the sea moderates temperatures, preventing the extreme drops found in inland Lapland.
Stable Snowy Winter
Unlike southern cities where snow comes and goes, in Umeå, snow is a permanent resident from November to April. It's one of the best places to experience a classic Swedish winter: temperatures hover between -5°C and -10°C (14-23°F), and snow piles up thick and clean. The air is dry and crisp.
White Nights and Short Summers
Summer in Umeå is intense but brief. During the summer solstice, the sun sets for only about two hours of bright twilight. Temperatures are pleasant, around 18-21°C (64-70°F), and vegetation grows rapidly thanks to the abundant light.
Weather in Umeå by Month
January
The coldest month. -5°C (23°F) daytime and -12°C (10°F) at night. Deep snow cover. Very short days (approx. 4 hours of light), but the white snow creates a magical frozen atmosphere.
February
Peak winter season. -4°C (25°F) daytime. Best month for skiing and snow activities. The return of the sun reflecting off the snow creates brilliant, intense light.
March
The "Spring-Winter" (Vårvinter). 1°C (34°F) daytime. Strong sun in the sky while everything is still white and frozen. Nights are still very cold, but afternoons are pleasant.
April
The big thaw. 6°C (43°F) daytime. Snow disappears rapidly and the river opens. Volatile weather with snow flurries in the morning and warm sun at noon.
May
Rapid greening. 12°C (54°F) daytime. Once the snow is gone, the city's famous Birch trees turn green within days. Fresh air and rapidly lengthening days.
June
The month of White Nights. 17°C (63°F) daytime. The sun barely sets. Comfortable temperatures and vibrant nature. Sunsets and sunrises merge beautifully.
July
The warmest month. 20°C (68°F) daytime and 11°C (52°F) at night. Pleasant, sunny days with low humidity. Peak time for swimming and forest hiking.
August
End of the northern summer. 19°C (66°F) daytime. Nights start to lengthen and cool. Berry picking season in the forests; morning mists over the river become common.
September
Short, colorful autumn. 13°C (55°F) daytime. Brilliant yellow foliage from the birch trees. Crisp air and excellent visibility.
October
Rapid cooling. 6°C (43°F) daytime. Days shorten and rains turn cold. First snow usually falls toward the end of the month.
November
The dark, grey month. 0°C (32°F) daytime and -4°C (25°F) at night. Almost no sun. Transition time as snow begins to stick, brightening the city.
December
True winter and lights festivals. -3°C (27°F) daytime and -8°C (18°F) at night. Daylight is at its minimum, but festive lights and fresh snow create a quiet, celebratory mood.