Winter snowfall In Norway guide

 Winter snowfall In Norway guide 

Located in Northern Europe, Norway is known for its snow-capped cliff mountains with impressive waterfalls, huge glaciers and deep fjords. Due to the mild waters of the Gulf Stream, Norway has a milder climate than most parts of the world at similar latitudes such as Alaska, Greenland and Siberia. Although the country is located far in the north, the country's climate varies greatly between regions.

When does it snow in Norway?

Winter in Norway is characterized by sub-freezing temperatures and most areas are covered with snow. The coldest parts of winter are inland or far north. Norway is more likely to experience heavy snowfall from December to April, with an average of 74 inches (1,879.6 mm) per year.

Snow in December

The northern parts of Norway do not experience sunrise; they tend to be cold with temperatures below freezing. Temperatures will drop to as low as 26.6 degrees Fahrenheit (-3.0 degrees Celsius) and December will receive 3.1 inches (78.4 mm) of snow.

Snow in January

Snowfall of up to 5 inches (127 mm) is witnessed in January over approximately 8.5 days. Even so, it's the best month to view the Northern Lights. January is also the coldest month in Norway, with temperatures dropping by 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 to -1 degrees Celsius). You will also experience shorter days in Oslo and north of Tromso.

Snow in February

Most of February every year is covered with snow. This means one can enjoy the northern lights before they disappear in the spring. It is also one of the coldest months with temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degree Celsius) and has longer days than January.

Snow in March

Temperatures begin to rise by an average of 35 degrees Fahrenheit (1.6 degrees Celsius) in March, resulting in melting snow and ice. They may randomly experience snowstorms in the mountains. During this month, the northern city of Tromso has most of the snow on the grounds.

Snow in April

April marks further rising temperatures and melting snow, especially around city streets and mountains. The temperature rises to highs of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

Where does it snow in Norway?

Several areas are witnessing heavy snowfall in Norway. Coastal areas experience temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), while inland temperatures are much cooler. Some places that have massive snowfall in Norway are:

Snow in Bergen

Bergen is sometimes considered the second city in Norway. The city has a mild oceanic climate with average temperatures around 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius). Bergen is the snowiest place in Norway with an average of 86 inches (2,200 mm) per year.

Snow in Kristiansand

Kristiansand experiences massive snowfall – 51.2 inches (1300 mm) per year. In fact, it is the second snowiest place in Norway. Located on the southeast coast of Norway, the influence of the ocean in this area is lower compared to the west coast, meaning it is not as humid and rainy as Bergen. Although Kristiansand is colder in winter, there is hope for sunny weather during the pleasant summer weather.

Snow in Oslo

Oslo is the largest city and capital of Norway and the best place for snow sports activities. The city experiences heavy snowfall with temperatures falling below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) and about 80 days of snowfall per year.

Snow in Tromso

Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromso has a sub-arctic climate and is the best place to see the Northern Lights. The city also accumulates a lot of snow during the cold winters, with an average annual precipitation of about 42.5 inches (1,080 mm). It snows heavily in the city for approximately 15.5 days in January.

Snow in Trondheim

Trondheim is located in central Norway and has high temperatures that exceed freezing point during the winter. This location witnesses snowfall in February with an average of 10 inches (254 mm) over about 14 days.

Skiing in Norway

How is skiing in Norway? You can't beat skiing in winter areas covered in snow. It's no secret that skiing is a way of life here. The best places for skiing in Norway are described below.

Lyngen Alps

Lyngen offers beautiful snow-covered slopes for an all-round winter skiing experience. You can start skiing from the snow-covered beaches and climb to the peaks while enjoying the wonderful view of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The Lyngen Alps have a lot to offer, especially when skiing and sailing in a group.

Ski resort Trysil

As the largest ski resort in Norway, Trysil has about 68 pistes easily accessible by 31 lifts. With Trysilfjellet in the center, this fun ski resort connects 3 separate villages with crusader green and blue buns. Experienced skiers and snowboarders who want more challenging black should head to Hogegg.

Ski resort Hovden

Hovden, the largest ski resort in southern Norway, has more than 30 slopes and offers more than 30 kilometers of downhill skiing. Hovden is ideal for people who like to hit the slopes, as it provides the best places for skiing, snowboarding and other enjoyable winter activities.

Hafjell ski resort

Most of the downhill skiing sports took place on the slopes of Hafjell. It offers 29 miles (47 kilometers) of slopes along with terrain parks. You want to enjoy this ski resort SkiMovie - a slope equipped with automatic timing and filming equipment to capture every triumph you experience.

Other ski resorts worth considering when visiting Norway in winter are Rauland, Geilo, Skeikampen, Hemsedal, Oslo Vinterpark and Myrkdalen.

As Norway is a cold country most of the year, bring all essentials including woolen sweaters, warm winter jackets, gloves, waterproof winter boots, etc.

You know the old saying: "Norwegians are born with skis on their feet"? You want to confirm that the country has about 125 ski resorts. Visit Norway during your next winter vacation!