Last updated: August 31, 2025
In August, Longyearbyen on Svalbard and Jan Mayen experiences a cool maritime climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). As summer wanes, temperatures can dip to a minimum of 0°C (32°F), creating a dynamic weather landscape. The region receives an average precipitation of 52 mm (2.0 in) spread across approximately 10 days, contributing to the lush, vibrant scenery. With humidity levels peaking at a remarkable 101%, the air is often rich and crisp, making August a unique time to explore this stunning Arctic environment.
In August, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen experience a inviting reprieve from the frigid clutches of winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). This marks the warmest month of the year, showcasing a gradual thaw that begins in July and lingers until September. The temperatures in August are a stark contrast to the relentless cold of the preceding months, where January to April consistently plunge below freezing. As the summer sun graces the archipelago, the milder weather provides an enchanting opportunity to explore its breathtaking landscapes, signaling a season of life and adventure amidst the stunning Arctic wilderness.
August in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen marks a transition towards the wetter months, with precipitation reaching 52 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 10 days. This slight decrease from July’s 53 mm (2.1 in) suggests a continuation of summer’s expressiveness before the arrival of autumn. Observing the seasonal trend, the late summer months generally see higher rainfall totals, with September anticipated to spike even further to 75 mm (3.0 in), reflecting an upward surge in precipitation as the region approaches fall. Overall, the data illustrates a clear narrative of increasing moisture, setting the stage for the colder months ahead, while still embracing the lingering warmth of late summer.
In August, Longyearbyen experiences an extraordinary humidity level that notably peaks at 101%, surpassing even the already high values seen in preceding months. As summer transitions to autumn, the rising humidity signifies a moist climate typical for this Arctic region. The trend showcases a remarkable consistency, with several months, especially from July onward, maintaining humidity levels tightly clustered around the 99% mark. This persistent humidity underscores the unique weather experiences in Svalbard, setting the stage for the cold, crisp air of September to follow, which drops slightly to 99%. Overall, August stands out as a particularly humid month, encapsulating the lingering warmth of summer while foreshadowing the chillier days ahead.
In August, the UV Index in Longyearbyen reflects a shift as it drops to a level 2, indicating a low exposure category and a burn time of 45 minutes. This gradual decrease from the moderate levels experienced in May, June, and July suggests that summer is winding down, bringing with it a slight reprieve from sun intensity. As the Arctic regions start to transition into autumn, ensuring proper sun protection remains important, although the risk is lessened compared to the peak summer months. For those planning outdoor activities in this unique environment, awareness of the UV index is crucial. For detailed information, refer to the Longyearbyen UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
August in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen marks a transition as the midnight sun gradually wanes, offering 307 hours of daylight. This month sees a noticeable decline from the vibrant summer peak of 400 hours in July, yet it still boasts a significant amount of sunshine compared to the darker days ahead. The increase in light from the previous months, especially from the near-zero hours in January, illustrates a compelling trend of growing brightness as spring and summer unfold. As festivities end and the cool autumn air begins to settle in September, the hours of sunshine will diminish further, leaving memories of a radiant summer behind.
In Longyearbyen, Svalbard, August tends to be one of the less sunny months, with the likelihood of sun dipping to only 8%. This marks a noticeable decline compared to the earlier summer months, where May enjoys a more promising 33% chance of sunshine. The overall trend indicates that as summer progresses into late summer and early autumn, the optimism for clear skies significantly wanes. Interestingly, the month transitions from a mild summer glow to the chillier embrace of autumn, as evidenced by the dwindling sunlight percentages. Thus, while July holds fleeting hopes with a 10% chance of sun, August's forecast reflects a more pronounced cloud cover, capping off the sun's brief summer reign in this Arctic paradise.
In Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen, the transition from perpetual darkness to a vibrant burst of light is both dramatic and captivating. After enduring long months of shadow from January to February, daylight begins to creep in, reaching a modest 11 hours by March. As spring unfolds, the sun's presence expands, culminating in a stunning 24 hours of daylight from May through July. Though August sees a slight dip to 23 hours, it still embraces the lingering glow of summer, heralding the onset of autumn. The days rapidly shorten with 14 hours in September, ultimately plunging back into the dark silence of winter by November, where daylight vanishes entirely until the cycle starts anew. This striking ebb and flow of daylight shapes not only the landscape but also the lifestyle of those who call this remote region home.
In August, Longyearbyen experiences its calmest winds of the year, with an average speed of just 2.2 m/s (5 mph). This gentle breeze marks a notable shift from the more robust gusts of early winter, where average speeds hover closer to 3.8 m/s (9 mph) in January and gradually taper off through the spring. As summer peaks and transitions into the cooler months, the wind remains relatively subdued, allowing for a serene atmosphere ideal for enjoying the stunning Arctic landscapes. Interestingly, while the later summer months witness less wind, they also set the stage for the rejuvenating autumn winds that begin to pick up in September, reminding us of the dynamic climate of this unique Arctic environment.
Weather in Longyearbyen varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares August’s weather to other months in Longyearbyen, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In August, Longyearbyen experiences milder temperatures, with averages ranging from a chilly 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The humidity is unusually high at 101%, and the area sees significant rainfall, with 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over about 10 days. In contrast, January presents a much harsher climate, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -24°C (-12°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F). The precipitation is lower at 35 mm (1.4 in) and occurs over fewer days, totaling around 7. Additionally, the humidity remains relatively high at 98%. For a more detailed look at January weather in Longyearbyen, visit Longyearbyen weather in January.
When comparing the weather in August and February, it's evident that February is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of just 2°C (36°F), whereas August offers much milder conditions, with temperatures between 0°C (32°F) and 14°C (58°F). Humidity levels are high in both months, with February at 99% and August slightly higher at 101%. Although August experiences a bit more precipitation overall—52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days compared to February’s 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days—the chill of February creates a distinctly harsher environment. For detailed insights on February conditions, you can check Longyearbyen weather in February.
August and March present stark contrasts in weather. August typically showcases milder temperatures, with averages around 5°C (41°F) and highs reaching up to 14°C (58°F), while March struggles with frigid conditions, averaging -14°C (7°F) and peaking at only 2°C (37°F). Additionally, August experiences 52 mm of precipitation over about 10 days, contributing to a humid environment with 101% humidity. In contrast, March has less precipitation at 38 mm over 9 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 99%. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in March.
When comparing the weather in August and April, it's evident that August is significantly milder. In August, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). In contrast, April is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -26°C (-14°F) and only reaching a maximum of 1°C (34°F) on average. Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with August receiving 52 mm (2.0 in) and April slightly less at 38 mm (1.5 in), and both have around 10 days of precipitation. Humidity also remains high in both months, peaking at 101% in August compared to 98% in April. For more detailed information about April's weather, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in April.
In comparing the weather of August and May, August tends to be milder with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F) and maximum highs reaching 14°C (58°F). In contrast, May experiences colder conditions, with average temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and maximums up to 6°C (43°F). Additionally, August sees higher precipitation levels at 52 mm (2.0 in) over about 10 days, while May receives 35 mm (1.4 in) across 9 days. The humidity is also notably higher in August at 101%, compared to May’s 94%. For more detailed information about the weather in May, you can check Longyearbyen weather in May.
In comparing the weather between August and June, it’s clear that August experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), compared to June's cooler minimum of -2°C (29°F) and average of 2°C (36°F). Additionally, August sees slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 14°C (58°F), whereas June peaks at 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is also greater in August, averaging 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, compared to June's 31 mm (1.2 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels are notably higher in August at 101%, compared to June's 95%. For a more detailed overview of June weather, visit Longyearbyen weather in June.
In comparing the weather conditions of August and July, it's evident that both months experience cool temperatures and significant humidity. August features a slightly lower average temperature, with a maximum of 14°C (58°F) compared to July's 16°C (61°F). Additionally, August witnesses a bit more rainfall, totaling 52 mm (2.0 in) over around 10 days, while July sees 53 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with August at 101% and July at 99%. For more detailed insights on July's weather, you can refer to Longyearbyen weather in July.
In August, Longyearbyen experiences relatively milder temperatures with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), peaking at 14°C (58°F). The month sees about 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over roughly 10 days, and a high humidity level of 101%. In contrast, September brings a noticeable drop in temperatures, with minimums dipping to -10°C (15°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), reaching a maximum of only 8°C (46°F). This month also features increased precipitation, totaling 75 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 99%. For more detailed insights, you can check Longyearbyen weather in September.
August and October present contrasting weather conditions in terms of temperature and precipitation. In August, temperatures hover between a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), accompanied by heavier rainfall totaling 52 mm (2.0 in) across about 10 days. The high humidity of 101% gives the month a muggy feel. Conversely, October sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F), an average of -4°C (26°F), and a maximum of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation decreases to 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains high at 97%, contributing to a crisp but damp atmosphere. For more detailed insights on the weather in October, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in October.
In comparing the weather between August and November, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation patterns. August experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while November sees a significant drop, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F). Despite November's slightly lower total precipitation of 46 mm (1.8 in) over 12 days compared to August's 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, the humidity remains relatively high in both months, with November at 98% and August at a striking 101%. For more detailed information, check out Longyearbyen weather in November.
August and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In August, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 52 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 101%. In contrast, December is much colder, featuring temperatures that plunge from a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of just 1°C (33°F), with an average of -9°C (16°F). This month sees a similar level of precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in), but spread over 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 98%. For more detailed weather information, you can explore Longyearbyen weather in December.
August in Longyearbyen marks a transitional phase, offering a unique blend of lingering summer warmth and the impending chill of autumn. With average temperatures hovering around 5°C, it’s noticeably cooler than the balmy months that preceded it. Humidity peaks at an impressive 101%, adding to the brisk atmosphere, while rainfall becomes more frequent as August witnesses around 10 days of precipitation. Unlike the midnight sun of early summer, this month hints at the darkness that looms ahead, making it a perfect time to experience the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape. For more details on what to expect throughout the year, check out Longyearbyen Climate.