Last updated: January 18, 2025
Suðuroy, the southernmost island of the Faroe Islands, experiences a Cfc climate as per the Köppen-Geiger classification. This maritime climate is characterized by relatively cool temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) recorded in April, an average annual temperature of 8°C (46°F), and a maximum of 14°C (58°F) occurring in July. The unique geographical position of Suðuroy leads to a distinctive weather pattern, shaped by the North Atlantic, resulting in a temperate environment with significant maritime influences.
In Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm defined by their maritime climate. The year begins with relatively mild winter temperatures, where January and February see minimums around 0-1°C (32-34°F) and maximums peaking at 10°C (51°F). As spring approaches, April marks a slight dip with minimums reaching -1°C (30°F), while average temperatures remain stable. By May, temperatures begin to gradually rise, with averages increasing to about 7°C (45°F). The warmth peaks in July, where temperatures reach a maximum of 14°C (58°F), accompanied by comfortable averages of 10°C (51°F). Late summer transitions to early autumn sees a slight cooling, with September retaining a pleasant feel, while October and November bring back cooler temperatures, with averages hovering around 9°C (48°F) and minimums in the range of 2-4°C (36-40°F). This seasonal profile illustrates Suðuroy's consistently cool climate, shaped significantly by its exposure to the North Atlantic Ocean.
In the Faroe Islands, the towns of Vagur, Hov, and Hvalba experience similar temperature ranges throughout the year. In April, the minimum temperature dips to -1°C (30°F), while in July, it reaches a maximum of 14°C (58°F) for all three locations. For more detailed temperature information, you can check the links: monthly temperatures in Vagur, monthly temperatures in Hov, and monthly temperatures in Hvalba.
Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, experiences a marked variance in precipitation throughout the year, characterized by relatively high rainfall levels, particularly in the autumn and winter months. January begins the year with 80 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall over approximately 16 days, gradually increasing through February and March, which see 98 mm (3.9 in) and 94 mm (3.7 in) respectively. The transition to spring brings a decrease in rainfall, with April recording 62 mm (2.5 in) and May witnessing its lowest level at 50 mm (2.0 in), as the region begins to experience milder weather.
As the seasons shift towards autumn, precipitation levels rise significantly once more, peaking in December with a notable 130 mm (5.1 in) recorded over 23 days. October and November also contribute to this trend, with 112 mm (4.4 in) and 107 mm (4.2 in) of rainfall, respectively. Throughout the summer months, such as June, July, and August, precipitation holds relatively steady, ranging from 50 mm (2.0 in) to 63 mm (2.5 in), but still maintains an average of about 11 rainy days. This consistent pattern of rainfall underscores Suðuroy's maritime climate, shaped by its geographical position in the North Atlantic.
In Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal progression, marked by a significant increase from the dreary winter months to the vibrant summer period. January begins with only 49 hours of sunshine, reflecting the long evenings and overcast skies common in winter. This pattern transitions as February sees a jump to 123 hours, and by March, sunshine hours further increase to 202. The arrival of spring brings even more light, culminating in April with 314 hours, making it evident that the longer days are invigorating the surrounding landscape as nature awakens.
The trend continues into the summer months, where Suðuroy basks in its peak solar exposure from June to August. June leads with 401 hours of sunshine, closely followed by July at 399 hours, and August at a still generous 367 hours. This generous sunshine contrasts sharply with the gradual decline experienced in autumn, as September returns to 283 hours, followed by a marked reduction in October with 206 hours, and a stark drop to just 84 hours in November and a mere 44 hours in December. Overall, these fluctuations highlight the unique climatic rhythm of Suðuroy, showcasing its transformation from a dim and cloudy winter to a bright and sunny summer, truly embodying the island's character and natural beauty.
In Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, the UV Index exhibits a clear seasonal trend that closely parallels the island's changing weather patterns and sunlight exposure. During the winter months, from January to March, the UV Index remains relatively low, with values of 1 and 2, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure and a consistent burn time of 45 minutes. As spring arrives in April, the UV Index escalates to 4, classifying the exposure category as moderate, which signals a gradual increase in sun strength and the necessity for added precautions. This upward trend continues through May, as the UV Index reaches 5, urging residents and visitors alike to be mindful of potential sun damage.
Summer brings the peak UV Index readings of the year, with June and July both registering a high index of 6. During this period, the burn time decreases to just 25 minutes, reflecting an increased risk of skin damage. As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index drops back to a moderate level of 5 in August and 4 in September, before returning to lower values in October through December, where it stabilizes back at 1. This progression highlights the importance of sun protection awareness, particularly from late spring through early autumn when UV exposure is at its highest, underscoring the need for caution during outdoor activities in Suðuroy.
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In Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, daylight duration shows a dramatic seasonal fluctuation highlighting the stark contrasts between winter and summer. During January, the island receives only 6 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 8 hours in February and reaching 11 hours by March. The onset of spring brings longer days, with April recording 14 hours of light and May peaking at 17 hours as the days continue to lengthen. This progression signals a welcome departure from the long, dark winter, allowing more time for outdoor activities and exploration of the island's breathtaking landscapes.
As summer approaches, daylight duration reaches its zenith in June at 19 hours, providing nearly 24 hours of twilight-like conditions, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of Suðuroy. Although July follows closely with 18 hours of daylight, there's a gentle decline starting in August with 15 hours, and daylight hours continue to diminish through autumn. By October, daylight drops to 9 hours, reducing further to 7 hours in November, and a stark 5 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only shapes the daily lives of the island's inhabitants but also emphasizes the dramatic seasonal changes that define life in Suðuroy.
The climate in Hov, Faroe Islands, is characterized by relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) in winter to 10°C (51°F) in summer. January and February are the coldest months, while July and August see the highest averages around 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is abundant, peaking in October with 111 mm (4.4 in), and sunshine hours are most plentiful from May to July, exceeding 370 hours in those months. For more detailed information, visit Hov climate.
Hvalba, located in the Faroe Islands, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. The coldest months, January to March, see average highs around 6-10°C (43-50°F), while July and August offer milder conditions with averages of 10-11°C (51-52°F). Precipitation is highest in the late autumn and winter months, with December receiving up to 131 mm (5.2 in), while sunshine hours peak in June and July, with nearly 400 hours. For more details, visit Hvalba climate.
Porkeri, located in the Faroe Islands, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 6°C (43°F) in winter to around 10°C (51°F) in summer, with July being the warmest month. Rainfall peaks in the fall and winter months, with October receiving 111 mm (4.4 in) and December 130 mm (5.1 in). Sunny days are most abundant in late spring and summer, with June boasting approximately 402 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Porkeri climate.
Tvoroyri, located in the Faroe Islands, experiences a maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a winter minimum of -1°C (30°F) in April to a summer maximum of 14°C (58°F) in July, with precipitation peaking in December at 130 mm (5.1 in). Sunshine hours vary seasonally, with the highest in June (402 hours) and the lowest in December (44 hours), indicating a stark contrast between summer and winter light. The region's rainfall averages about 81 mm (3.2 in) monthly, contributing to its lush landscape. For more details, visit Tvoroyri climate.
The climate in Vagur, Faroe Islands, features mild temperatures throughout the year, with averages hovering between 6°C (43°F) in winter and reaching up to 11°C (52°F) in late summer. Precipitation is abundant, peaking in December with 130 mm (5.1 in), while May sees the least rainfall at 50 mm (2.0 in). Sunshine hours vary significantly, with June experiencing the most at 402 hours and December the least at just 44 hours. The overall maritime climate ensures cool summers and mild winters, making Vagur a unique destination. For more detailed information, visit Vagur climate.
In conclusion, Suðuroy, Faroe Islands, showcases a distinctive interplay of climate characteristics, including temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours, that collectively define the island's unique environmental identity. The transition from the cold, dark winters to bright, sun-filled summers brings both challenges and opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for planning activities and ensuring safety in outdoor pursuits, particularly during the periods of intense sunlight and varying UV exposure. As Suðuroy continues to enchant its visitors with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, comprehending its climate not only enhances appreciation but also fosters a deeper connection to this remarkable island community.