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Weather in Елливаре: What to Expect by Season

Photo: Dag Lindgren, CC BY-SA 3.0

Weather overview

Елливаре lies in the heart of Swedish Lapland, where the climate shifts dramatically with the seasons. Winters here are long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below -10 °C from November to March, while summers bring brief but pleasant warmth, peaking in July at around +15.6 °C. The transition months—April and October—offer a mix of lingering cold and hints of the coming season, making them quieter times to visit.

Daylight in Елливаре varies extremes: the sun barely rises in December, while June and July bring nearly 24 hours of daylight, a phenomenon known as the midnight sun. This stark contrast shapes the rhythm of life in the region, from winter activities like skiing to summer hikes under the endless sun. Travelers should prepare for these shifts, as they influence everything from outdoor plans to daily routines.

The weather in Елливаре is as much about the light as it is about the temperature. May and September serve as bridges between the seasons, with May offering the first taste of spring and September marking the onset of autumn’s crisp air. These months can be unpredictable, so packing layers is key to adapting to sudden changes.

Temperature

Winter in Елливаре is a study in endurance, with January and February averaging -11.1 °C and -7.4 °C respectively. Nighttime temperatures often dip below -10 °C, and even daytime highs struggle to climb above -5 °C. By March, the cold begins to ease slightly, though -6.4 °C still feels sharp, especially with lingering snow cover.

Summer arrives late in Елливаре, with June bringing the first truly warm days at +12.3 °C. July is the warmest month, averaging +15.6 °C, though nights can still cool to around +11 °C. By August, temperatures start to decline, dropping to +13.1 °C, and by September, the average falls to +9.1 °C, signaling the return of autumn’s chill.

The temperature swings in Елливаре are most noticeable in the shoulder seasons. April sees a jump from -1.7 °C to +2.5 °C by day, while October brings a sharp drop from +2.7 °C in early month to -0.1 °C by the end. These rapid changes make layering essential for anyone exploring the area during these transitional periods.

Average air temperature °C
Average air temperature
Month Minimum Maximum
January -14.7 -7.7
February -10.8 -4.4
March -10.8 -2.1
April -6.3 2.5
May 0.1 10.4
June 7.6 16.4
July 11.1 19.6
August 9.3 16.9
September 5.7 12.7
October -2.9 2.7
November -9.8 -4.3
December -12.8 -5.9

Precipitation

Rainfall in Елливаре is spread unevenly across the year, with the wettest months falling in summer. July and August see the highest precipitation, averaging 107 mm and 101 mm respectively, often in the form of steady rain. June and September also bring significant moisture, with 70 mm and 84 mm, making waterproof gear a necessity for outdoor activities.

Winter in Елливаре is drier, with February being the least rainy month at just 23 mm. Snowfall is common from November to April, though the total precipitation remains modest, with December and January averaging 49 mm and 45 mm. The snow cover is usually reliable, creating ideal conditions for winter sports.

Spring and autumn in Елливаре bring moderate rainfall, with April and October each receiving around 44 mm and 72 mm. These months can be damp, but the precipitation is rarely heavy enough to disrupt travel plans. May is notably drier at 33 mm, offering a brief respite before the summer rains begin.

Precipitation amount mm
Precipitation amount
Month Precipitation
January 45
February 23
March 39
April 44
May 33
June 70
July 107
August 101
September 84
October 72
November 40
December 49

What to pack

Visiting Елливаре in winter means preparing for extreme cold. Thermal layers, a windproof jacket, insulated boots, and gloves are essential, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. The temperatures in January and February can drop below -10 °C, so covering exposed skin is crucial to avoid frostbite. Don’t forget a hat and scarf to retain body heat.

Summer in Еlliваре is mild but unpredictable. Lightweight clothing is suitable for daytime, but evenings can be cool, so a sweater or light jacket is useful. Waterproof gear is a must, particularly in July and August, when rain is frequent. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring the area’s trails, and sunglasses will help with the bright midnight sun in June and July.

For the shoulder seasons, layering is key. In April and October, temperatures can swing between near-freezing and mild, so packing a mix of warm and lighter clothing ensures you’re prepared for any weather. A waterproof layer is still advisable, as rain and even snow can occur. Sturdy footwear is important year-round, given the region’s rugged terrain.

Average monthly wind m/s
Average monthly wind
Month Wind speed Direction
January 1.5 260
February 1.7 243
March 1.3 275
April 0.7 292
May 1.1 267
June 0.5 272
July 0.3 50
August 0.7 177
September 1.3 220
October 1 247
November 1.2 290
December 1 266