Uppsala Weather Guide: Climate Insights and Eternal Light

Uppsala, located just north of Stockholm, experiences a climate that is transitioning from a traditional cold continental environment (Dfb/Dfc) to a more moderate, mild-temperate zone. As home to one of the world's oldest continuous weather records, began by Anders Celsius in 1722, the city offers a unique historical perspective on the shifting patterns of Northern Europe.

The Light Revolution: Changing Days

More than the temperature, the defining characteristic of Uppsala's climate is the extreme variation in daylight. At nearly 60°N latitude, the city experiences the "White Nights" from mid-May to late July. During this period, the sun barely dips below the horizon, creating a perpetual dusk/dawn glow that eliminates total darkness. Conversely, December brings the winter solstice, where the sun rises late in the morning and sets by mid-afternoon, offering roughly six hours of daylight and often shrouded in an overcast, charcoal-colored sky.

Seasonal Rhythm and Trends

• Winter (December – March): This is a long season of sub-freezing temperatures and persistent snow cover. While average highs hover around 0°C (32°F), polar cold spells can occasionally drive temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F) or lower. The air is often humid, making the cold feel "sharper" against the skin.
• Spring (April – May): A rapid awakening. Snow melts quickly as the days lengthen dramatically. This is historically the driest time of the year, characterized by crisp, clear skies and the first blooms, though nocturnal frost remains common through May.
• Summer (June – August): The most temperate period, with average highs of 20°C to 23°C (68°F–73°F). However, summer is also the wettest season; August typically sees the heaviest rainfall, often arriving as sudden afternoon showers or thunderstorms. Occasional heatwaves can push temperatures toward 30°C (86°F).
• Autumn (September – November): A gradual descent into gray. September remains mild, but by October, the humidity rises to nearly 90%, and the landscape is frequently blanketed in thick morning fog. The first snow often makes a brief appearance in late November.

Urban Microclimates and Adaptations

Uppsala’s topography is relatively flat, but the city exhibits a clear "Urban Heat Island" effect. Measurements show that the compact mid-rise city center can be up to 5°C warmer on clear, calm evenings compared to the surrounding agricultural plains of Uppland. Locals have adapted to these nuances by prioritizing cycling infrastructure that is kept meticulously snow-free, and by utilizing the Fyrisån River as a natural thermal regulator and flood management system.

What It Feels Like

The weather in Uppsala is a sensory experience. In winter, the air is "silent" and biting, often requiring a psychological adjustment to the pervasive darkness. Locals embrace mys (coziness) to counter the gloom. In summer, the weather feels "endless" because of the light; the air is fresh and rarely stifling, though the high humidity in late summer can make rainy days feel heavy. The transition from the bone-dry air of April to the saturated mists of November is a fundamental part of the regional identity.