Last updated: August 31, 2025
In February, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen experience a stark winter landscape characterized by significant temperature fluctuations. The maximum temperature reaches a cool 2°C (36°F), while the average hovers around a brisk -12°C (11°F), dipping to a frosty minimum of -26°C (-15°F). With 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation spread across 11 days, the month sees a high level of humidity at 99%, immersing the region in a cold, damp atmosphere. This unique blend of temperatures and moisture creates a captivating Arctic environment perfect for winter enthusiasts and researchers alike.
In February, temperatures in Longyearbyen remain consistently frigid, with minimums dipping to -26°C (-15°F). The average temperature hovers around -12°C (11°F), mirroring the chill of January but maintaining a slight edge over the depths of winter. Daytime highs reach up to 2°C (36°F), providing occasional respite from the cold. As the month progresses, the lingering winter grip signals that spring is on the horizon, yet harsh conditions persist. This month serves as a transition point, where the biting cold gradually softens, setting the stage for the milder temperatures of March and April. Overall, February encapsulates the icy beauty of Svalbard, showcasing the stark contrasts inherent in polar climates.
In February, Longyearbyen experiences a notable increase in precipitation compared to January, with 47 mm (1.9 in) falling over 11 days. This uptick not only signifies a trend of increasing moisture through the winter months but also positions February as one of the wetter months leading into spring. The precipitation during this time, primarily in the form of snow, contributes to the winter landscape's beauty, creating a stark contrast against the crisp Arctic air. As spring approaches, February's wetter conditions hint at the upcoming transition, setting the stage for the more substantial precipitation typically seen in the early months of spring. The increase in precipitation also supports the local ecosystem, sustaining the resilient wildlife that adapts to these harsh yet stunning Arctic conditions.
In February, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen experience an impressive humidity level of 99%, maintaining the region's reputation as one of the most humid places in the Arctic. This month marks a peak in moisture in a winter season characterized by consistently high humidity, with January and March also sitting at 98% and 99%, respectively. As spring approaches, humidity begins a gradual decline, dropping to 94% by May, but February stands out as a month of palpable dampness, contributing to the enchanting, yet chilly atmosphere of these remote islands. Observing the ongoing trend, the high humidity levels throughout winter not only shape the local environment but also influence the unique icy landscapes that define this captivating Arctic region.
In February, Longyearbyen sees a UV Index of 1, maintaining the low exposure category established in January. This level of UV radiation means that residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk of sunburn, as the burn time remains steady at 45 minutes. As winter progresses into March, the UV Index stays at 1, indicating a consistent pattern of low UV exposure in these months. However, as spring approaches, expect a gradual increase in UV levels, with the index rising to 2 in April. For those looking to understand and prepare for UV exposure in this unique Arctic environment, further insights can be found at Longyearbyen UV Index.
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As winter gradually yields to spring in Longyearbyen, February heralds a delightful transition with 14 hours of sunshine, a welcome increase from the stark 0 hours of January. This burgeoning light not only lifts spirits but also signals the year's momentum, setting the stage for a remarkable surge in daylight. By March, the sun's embrace expands dramatically to 221 hours, and April continues to dazzle with 387 hours, creating a vibrant tapestry of gradually lengthening days. As we move towards summer, May dazzles with 495 hours of daylight, peaking before the sun begins to wane slightly in June and July. This captivating trend of ascending and then gently descending sunlight hours not only marks the changing seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the stunning Arctic landscape bathed in daylight.
In Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen, February presents a particularly challenging outlook for sunshine, with only a 10% chance of clear skies. This trend marks the beginning of a gradual increase in sunlight, as the region transitions into spring. While the likelihood of sunny weather rises slightly in March and April, peaking at 17%, February remains one of the dreariest months. As brighter days approach, the chance of sunshine significantly increases in May, reaching 33%, marking a stark contrast to the gloom of mid-winter. Thus, while February might feel rather bleak, it serves as a pivotal moment in the shift toward sunnier conditions.
In February, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen begin to emerge from the deep winter darkness, experiencing a welcome surge in daylight with 4 hours of sunshine replacing January's total absence. This modest increase marks the start of a remarkable transition, as daylight rapidly expands in the coming months. By March, residents enjoy 11 hours, followed by an impressive 20 hours in April, as the polar night recedes. As summer approaches in May, the sun shines continuously for 24 hours, a phenomenon that continues through June and July. Even as August rolls in, the daylight remains abundant with 23 hours, gradually tapering off to 14 hours in September. This remarkable pattern emphasizes the dramatic shifts in daylight that characterize the region, ultimately returning to darkness in November and December, completing an astonishing seasonal cycle.
In February, Longyearbyen experiences a gentle lull in its wintry winds, with an average speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), notably lower than the preceding month's breezy 3.8 m/s (9 mph). This decrease hints at a gradual transition towards calmer spring conditions, as the winds remain relatively mild compared to the more turbulent winter months. In fact, February stands as one of the lowest wind speed months in the region, nestled between January's briskness and March's slight uptick to 3.1 m/s (7 mph). This trend of waning winds is complemented by a general progression toward warmer temperatures, inviting both residents and adventurers to embrace February's tranquil beauty amidst the icy landscapes of Svalbard and Jan Mayen.
Weather in Longyearbyen varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares February’s weather to other months in Longyearbyen, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
February weather in Longyearbyen shows slightly colder temperatures compared to January, with an average low of -26°C (-15°F) and an average high of 2°C (36°F). While both months share the same average temperature of -12°C (11°F), February experiences more precipitation with 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 35 mm (1.4 in) across just 7 days. Additionally, February has a higher humidity level at 99%, compared to January's 98%. For more details, you can check Longyearbyen weather in January.
February and March in Longyearbyen present a stark contrast in temperature patterns despite their similarities. In February, the average temperature hovers around -12°C (11°F), with lows reaching -26°C (-15°F) and highs peaking at 2°C (36°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, all while maintaining a high humidity of 99%. In contrast, March experiences slightly colder temperatures, with an average of -14°C (7°F), minimums dipping to -30°C (-22°F), yet it retains the same maximum of 2°C (37°F). Precipitation decreases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over 9 days, but humidity remains unchanged at a staggering 99%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions during this month, visit Longyearbyen weather in March.
Comparing the weather in February and April reveals notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average hovering around -12°C (11°F) and only reaching a maximum of 2°C (36°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days and carries a high humidity of 99%.
In contrast, April experiences slightly milder temperatures with a minimum still reaching -26°C (-14°F) but an average of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 1°C (34°F). Precipitation decreases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days, and humidity remains high at 98%. These shifts hint at the gradual transition from the deep winter chill of February to the milder conditions typical of late winter into spring. For a more detailed outlook, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in April.
February and May in Longyearbyen showcase a significant contrast in weather conditions. In February, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to an average of -12°C (11°F), with a maximum of just 2°C (36°F). This month experiences high humidity at 99% and receives approximately 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In comparison, May offers a slight reprieve from the extreme cold, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F), peaking at 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases to around 35 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 94%. For a more detailed understanding of May's weather in Longyearbyen, please refer to Longyearbyen weather in May.
February weather in Longyearbyen is characterized by frigid temperatures, with lows dropping to -26°C (-15°F) and averaging about -12°C (11°F). This month sees a maximum temperature of only 2°C (36°F) and experiences high humidity at 99%, along with 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In stark contrast, June brings milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), and an average of 2°C (36°F). June also has less precipitation, recording 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 8 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 95%. For more details, check out Longyearbyen weather in June.
February and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures plunge as low as -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -12°C (11°F) and occasional brief peaks at 2°C (36°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a near-constant humidity of 99%. In contrast, July experiences much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Although July has slightly higher precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days, the cool, damp climate remains consistent with high humidity at 99%. For more details, refer to Longyearbyen weather in July.
February and August present striking contrasts in weather. In February, temperatures plummet, with average lows reaching a frigid -12°C (11°F) and highs only reaching 2°C (36°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 99%. This month also sees about 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, creating a wintry landscape. In contrast, August experiences milder weather, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 52 mm (2.0 in) across just 10 days, with humidity peaking at 101%. The differences in temperature and humidity highlight the dramatic seasonal shift in Longyearbyen. For more details on August weather, visit Longyearbyen weather in August.
February and September in Longyearbyen present contrasting weather patterns. February is characterized by frigid temperatures, with averages around -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of just 2°C (36°F), while September sees milder conditions, where temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) to an average of 2°C (35°F). In terms of precipitation, February receives 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to September's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, indicating a wetter month. Both months have high humidity levels of 99%, but the overall milder temperatures in September offer a different experience. For more detailed insights, you can explore Longyearbyen weather in September.
February and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions, particularly in terms of temperature and precipitation. In February, temperatures plummet, with averages around -12°C (11°F) and frigid lows reaching as low as -26°C (-15°F), while October offers a milder climate, with average temperatures around -4°C (26°F) and minimums of -15°C (5°F). Precipitation also varies, with February experiencing 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to October's 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days. Humidity remains high in both months, at 99% in February and 97% in October, but the slightly warmer temperatures in October can make it feel less severe. For more details on the conditions in October, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in October.
February and November present strikingly similar cold weather patterns, yet they exhibit subtle differences. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 2°C (36°F). This month sees 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity reaching a significant 99%.
November, on the other hand, is slightly milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to an average of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, maintaining a high humidity of 98%.
For more detailed information about the weather in November, visit Longyearbyen weather in November.
February and December exhibit strikingly similar cold weather patterns, with both months experiencing minimum temperatures dipping to -26°C (-15°F to -14°F). However, February generally has a slightly milder average temperature of -12°C (11°F) compared to December's average of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation levels also vary slightly, with February receiving 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, while December sees 53 mm (2.1 in) across 12 days, indicating a marginally wetter month. The humidity remains high in both months, with February at 99% and December at 98%, contributing to the chilling atmosphere. For more details about the weather in December, visit Longyearbyen weather in December.
February in Longyearbyen offers a unique winter experience, characterized by its bitingly cold temperatures and high humidity. With an average of -12°C, the conditions are significantly chillier compared to the milder months that follow. The substantial precipitation, often falling as snow, contributes to the already mesmerizing Arctic landscape, making the days feel more dynamic despite the cold. This month stands apart with its intense winter atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to embrace the true essence of polar conditions. For a deeper understanding of what to expect year-round, explore Longyearbyen Climate.