Weather Comparison
Helsinki vs Riga
Side-by-side weather comparison for August
August Weather: Helsinki vs Riga
| Metric | Helsinki | Riga | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 20°C (68°F) | 22°C (72°F)▲ | Riga |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 14°C (57°F) | 14°C (57°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 12 days▲ | 13 days | Helsinki |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 76 mm▲ | 80 mm | Helsinki |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 11h/day | 12h/day▲ | Riga |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 10 | 10 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h▲ | 19 km/h | Helsinki |
Which City is Better in August?
Helsinki and Riga are closely matched in August. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Helsinki sits in the comfortable travel range at 20°C. Riga is also comfortable at 22°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Helsinki is the stronger choice in August. Riga receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in August
Helsinki reaches an average high of 20°C (68°F) and drops to 14°C (57°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 6°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Riga averages 22°C (72°F) for the high and 14°C (57°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in August.
Rainfall Comparison in August
Helsinki receives approximately 76 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during August. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Riga sees 80 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Helsinki the drier option by 1 rain day and 4 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.
What to Pack: Helsinki vs Riga
Packing for Helsinki in August
Highs of 20°C, lows of 14°C, 12 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
Packing for Riga in August
Highs of 22°C, lows of 14°C, 13 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during August.
Year-Round Comparison: Helsinki vs Riga
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.August is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Helsinki | Riga | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | -2°C | 11d | -1°C | 12d |
| Feb | -3°C | 9d | 0°C | 10d |
| Mar | 1°C | 9d | 4°C | 10d |
| Apr | 7°C | 9d | 11°C | 10d |
| May | 13°C | 9d | 16°C | 10d |
| Jun | 17°C | 12d | 20°C | 11d |
| Jul | 21°C | 12d | 22°C | 12d |
| Aug | 20°C | 12d | 22°C | 13d |
| Sep | 15°C | 10d | 17°C | 11d |
| Oct | 8°C | 12d | 10°C | 14d |
| Nov | 3°C | 12d | 4°C | 13d |
| Dec | 0°C | 12d | 1°C | 12d |
Helsinki Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Riga Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities