Weather in Iceland

Contrary to popular belief, Iceland has very mild, coastal weather. The average summer temperature in Reykjavik, the capital, is 10.6°C/51°F in July, with average highs of 24.3°C/76°F. The average winter temperature in Reykjavik is similar to New York City's, about 0°C/32°F in January (average highs are 9.9°C/50°C). Usually the weather is very changeable.

The mild climate stems from the Gulf Stream, the warm ocean current from the Gulf of Mexico. The weather is also affected by the East Greenland polar current curving south-eastwards round the north and east coasts.

Weather Station near Þrengslavegur in southern Iceland