Weather in Kolari

Kolari, Finland: Climate and Weather Year Round

Kolari is a charming municipality located in the Lapland region of Finland. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine wilderness, and the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Understanding the climate and weather patterns in Kolari is essential for both residents and visitors to plan their activities and make the most of their time in this stunning region.

Geographical Location

Kolari is situated in the northernmost part of Finland, close to the Swedish border. It is located at a latitude of approximately 67 degrees north. The municipality covers an area of about 2,419 square kilometers and is surrounded by vast forests, lakes, and fells.

Temperature

Kolari experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by long, cold winters and relatively short, mild summers. The average temperature in winter ranges from -14 degrees Celsius (7 degrees Fahrenheit) to -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit). During the coldest months of January and February, temperatures can drop as low as -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit).

In contrast, the average temperature in summer varies between 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) and 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). July is the warmest month, with average temperatures reaching around 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit).

Precipitation

Kolari receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher levels in summer. The annual precipitation is around 500-600 millimeters (20-24 inches), which is relatively low compared to other parts of Finland. The summer months of June, July, and August experience the highest rainfall, while the winter months receive less precipitation in the form of snow.

Due to its northern location, Kolari is blessed with a significant amount of snowfall. The snow season typically begins in November and lasts until April, with the peak snow depth occurring in February and March. The average snow depth during these months can reach up to 70-80 centimeters (28-32 inches).

Sunlight

One of the unique aspects of Kolari's weather is the variation in daylight hours throughout the year. During the summer months, the sun hardly sets, leading to the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains visible for 24 hours a day. This occurs from around mid-June to mid-July.

On the other hand, during the winter months, Kolari experiences the Polar Night, where the sun does not rise above the horizon for several weeks. This period usually lasts from early December to early January. However, even during the Polar Night, there is a period of twilight during the day, providing some natural light.

Climate Highlights

Here are some key climate highlights for Kolari:

• Winter temperatures can drop as low as -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Summer temperatures range between 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) and 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Annual precipitation is around 500-600 millimeters (20-24 inches).
• The snow season lasts from November to April, with the peak snow depth occurring in February and March.
• The Midnight Sun phenomenon occurs from mid-June to mid-July, with 24 hours of daylight.
• The Polar Night period lasts from early December to early January, with no direct sunlight.

Weather Activities

Kolari's unique climate and weather conditions offer a range of exciting activities for both winter and summer enthusiasts. Some popular activities include:

Winter Activities:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Kolari is home to several ski resorts, offering excellent opportunities for downhill skiing and snowboarding. The well-maintained slopes cater to different skill levels.
2. Husky Safaris: Experience the thrill of mushing through the snowy landscapes with a team of energetic and friendly husky dogs.
3. Snowshoeing: Explore the pristine winter wilderness by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and venturing into the snow-covered forests.
4. Northern Lights Hunting: Kolari's location within the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal spot to witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.

Summer Activities:

1. Hiking: Discover the beauty of Kolari's nature trails and national parks, offering stunning views of lakes, forests, and fells.
2. Fishing: Enjoy the tranquility of Kolari's lakes and rivers while trying your hand at fishing. The region is known for its abundance of salmon and trout.
3. Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle along the calm waters of Kolari's rivers and lakes, immersing yourself in the serene natural surroundings.
4. Midnight Sun Photography: Capture the ethereal beauty of the Midnight Sun during the summer months, when the sun remains visible throughout the day and night.

Whether you are a winter enthusiast seeking snowy adventures or a nature lover looking for summer delights, Kolari offers a wide range of activities to suit all preferences.

Overall, Kolari's climate and weather create a unique and captivating environment throughout the year. From the frosty winter wonderland to the enchanting Midnight Sun, this picturesque municipality in Lapland has something extraordinary to offer every season.