The average temperature in Oslo was nearly six degrees Celsius (10.8 F) higher than normal in January and the next warmest January since measurements began.

Only a few days this winter have provided Norwegians in the capital district with their traditional snowy pleasures. The new year has begun with near-record temperatures.

Only one January has had a higher average temperature than 2005 since the Meteorological Institute began taking records in 1938, and this year was headed for a record before a sudden cold snap set in.

In 1989 the average temperature reached +2.3C (36F). The norm is -4.3C (24F).

"Using the word "extreme" is completely justified for this year's January in Oslo. A deviation from the norm of 5.9C is an extreme amount," said Hans Olav Hygen, climate researcher at the Institute.

"If one examines the data in a perspective of about 70 years the trend is completely clear. It is getting warmer," Hygen said.

Via Aftenposten News in English.

Environment [03:28]