The Faroe Islands - a northern country with a mild climate
The Faroe Islands is a group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean between Iceland, Norway and Scotland (62°, N 7° W). There are 17 inhabited islands, 1 uninhabited island as well as several islets and reefs. In total, the land area is about 1 400 sq km. The population of 48 574 (1'st Jan. '11) is based mainly in the capital area of Tórshavn on Streymoy and on the two islands Eysturoy and Borðoy. Both in terms of land area and population, the two largest islands are Streymoy and Eysturoy.
The climate is mild and oceanic characterized by a temperate ocean current stretching from the Mexican Gulf to the North Atlantic Ocean. Temperatures are relatively stable on an annual basis varying from about 3° C in January to about 10° C in August on average. The waters around the Faroe Islands are kept free of ice by the temperate ocean current. In addition to the relatively stable temperatures, frequent fog, rain and often westerly winds are characteristic of the climate. Annual precipitation averages around 1 284 mm.
The islands are rugged with sheer mountain sides, and the coastlines are indented with firths and straits. Natural vegetation is mainly grass, moss and mountain bog. The network of roads in the Faroe Islands is very well developed with connection reaching almost all islands and villages via roads or tunnels. Islands with no connection via roads or tunnels are accessible by ferries or helicopter.
