The 10 Coldest Countries in the World

The world’s coldest countries are mostly located in the Northern Hemisphere, especially near the Arctic. High elevations and continental climates also keep temperatures low across much of the list.

Canada ranks first in the article, with an average annual temperature of about minus 4 to minus 5 degrees Celsius. Its northern territories include tundra where temperatures can remain below freezing for long periods, while the country’s latitude brings long, harsh winters.

Russia follows, with an average annual temperature of about minus 3 to minus 5 degrees. Siberia contains some of the coldest permanently inhabited places on Earth, including Oymyakon and Verkhoyansk, which have recorded exceptionally low temperatures.

Mongolia has an average annual temperature of about minus 0.7 degrees. Its elevation and distance from the oceans contribute to the cold, while Ulaanbaatar is widely regarded as the world’s coldest national capital. Norway, Kyrgyzstan and Finland follow, with average annual temperatures of about 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7 degrees respectively.

Iceland’s average is about 1.8 degrees. Ocean currents moderate its climate, but its subpolar location, highlands and glaciers keep conditions generally cold. Kazakhstan records an average of about 2 degrees, with severe winters and large seasonal temperature swings caused by its continental climate.