Climate in Latvia

Latvia has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -46°C in the coldest regions to highs of 29°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 3mm in drier regions to 392mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 43cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Latvia a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Latvia vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The West is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 29°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the West, where winter lows drop to -46°C and an annual average of -44°C. This 72°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Latvia they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 72°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Kuldīga in the Kuldīgas novads averages 27°C annually, while Jelgava in the Jelgava averages -44°C.

Latvia sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 3mm to 392mm per year. The West receives the most rainfall, at approximately 392mm annually. The North is the driest, with around 2mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The West sees the most snowfall, with up to 43cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Travellers should pack rain gear when visiting wetter areas, while drier regions offer more favourable conditions throughout the year.