Riga Weather Guide: Seasonal Climate and Local Insights

Riga’s weather is defined by its transition between maritime and continental influences. Situated at the mouth of the Daugava River and the head of the Gulf of Riga, the city experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing a dramatic shift in both temperature and daylight.

Typical Weather Patterns

Riga features a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb) but is heavily tempered by the Baltic Sea. This proximity prevents the extreme temperature plunges found deeper in Eurasia, resulting in milder, damp winters and temperate, occasionally humid summers. Precipitation is consistent throughout the year, with roughly 180 days of some form of moisture, meaning overcast skies and "grey days" are common, particularly in late autumn and winter.

Seasonal Trends

• Winter (December – February): This is a season of low light and high humidity. Temperatures typically hover around -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F), but occasional arctic blasts can drop the mercury to -20°C (-4°F). Snow cover is common and can persist for up to 80 days, though "thaws" caused by maritime winds often turn the snow into a slushy mix of ice and water.
• Spring (March – May): Spring is a slow-motion transition. March often feels like an extension of winter, with melting snow creating slushy conditions (locals call this atkusnis). By May, the city undergoes a rapid greening as temperatures climb to a pleasant 16°C (61°F).
• Summer (June – August): The most vibrant season, characterized by long, temperate days. Highs average 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F), though heatwaves can push these above 30°C (86°F). August is historically the wettest month, often seeing heavy afternoon thunderstorms.
• Autumn (September – November): September often retains a mild "Indian Summer" feel, but by October, the air turns crisp and damp. Fog is frequent as the warm river water meets the cooling air, and November marks the return of short days and consistent drizzle.

The "Feel" of the Weather

Beyond the thermometer, Riga’s weather is felt through its humidity and wind. Even at 0°C, the high humidity can make the cold feel bone-chillingly "damp." Conversely, the coastal breeze from the Gulf of Riga provides a refreshing coolness in the height of summer, making the city feel much more comfortable than inland continental cities during heatwaves.

Daylight Dynamics and Phenomena

One of the most striking aspects of Riga’s climate is the variation in daylight due to its northern latitude:

• The White Nights: Around the summer solstice (late June), the sun barely dips below the horizon. The sky remains a deep twilight for most of the night, a phenomenon celebrated during the Jāņi festival.
• The Dark Winter: In December, the city sees as little as six hours of daylight. The low sun angle creates a permanent "golden hour" effect during the few hours the sun is above the horizon, provided the clouds part.

Microclimates and Variations

There is a subtle but noticeable microclimate difference between Old Riga and the Jūrmala coast. Jūrmala, just 20km west, is often windier and slightly cooler during the day due to direct sea exposure, while the center of Riga can act as a minor heat island, trapping warmth among its historic Art Nouveau and medieval stone buildings.

Local Adaptation

Latvians have a high tolerance for gray skies and light rain, often continuing outdoor activities regardless of a drizzle. In winter, the city adapts with extensive snow clearing and the use of sand and salt on cobblestones, though the transition periods of freezing and thawing require careful navigation of slick surfaces. Historically, the city has dealt with occasional flooding from the Daugava River during spring thaws, though modern infrastructure has largely mitigated this impact.