Norway faces wet and grey Constitution Day celebrations

Norway’s 17 May national celebrations are likely to be marked by rain showers across much of the country, according to the latest forecast from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute.

Speaking to Dagbladet, duty meteorologist Tone Christin Thaule advised revellers to prepare for unsettled conditions. “I’d expect some precipitation throughout the day, so an umbrella would be wise,” she said.

Southern Norway will bear the brunt of the downpours, with frequent showers expected on the south and west coasts as well as in Trøndelag. The Agder region and southern Rogaland may see the least rain, with only isolated showers possible. Major cities like Oslo are likely to start with dry spells before heavier showers develop later in the day. “It’s uncertain whether you’ll stay dry during the children’s parade in Oslo,” Thaule noted. “Shower activity will increase, with more intensity as the day goes on.”

Northern Norway will fare slightly better, though still not dry. While Nordland may see showers from morning, Troms and Finnmark could experience longer dry periods and lighter rain. Temperatures in the far north may reach 18–19°C locally, while southern cities like Bergen will hover around 10°C and Oslo around 12–14°C. Trondheim is expected to see similar temperatures, around 12–13°C.

Wind is not forecast to be a major issue, except along the coast east of Kristiansand, where fresh breezes—approaching near-gale force—are possible. “Winds may pick up briefly during heavier showers,” Thaule added.

The meteorologist stressed that while the forecast points to widespread showers, their exact timing and intensity remain difficult to predict. “There’s no high-pressure system building, which would normally bring more stable, dry weather,” she explained. “Instead, we’re looking at a day dominated by showery conditions nationwide.”