Alaska Weather by Month
Alaska, the northernmost state in the United States, is known for its diverse and extreme climate, ranging from polar conditions in the north to more temperate coastal climates in the south. The state’s vast size and varied topography create a wide range of weather patterns. In general, Alaska experiences long, harsh winters with heavy snowfall and short, cool summers. The interior regions, such as Fairbanks, experience greater temperature extremes, with summer highs reaching up to 90°F (32°C) and winter lows plummeting to -50°F (-45°C). Coastal areas, like Anchorage and Juneau, have milder temperatures but receive more precipitation, including rain and snow. The northernmost regions, including Barrow (Utqiaġvik), are characterized by polar climates with extended periods of darkness in winter and continuous daylight in summer. Alaska’s climate is also influenced by its proximity to the Arctic Circle, leading to unique phenomena such as the Northern Lights and midnight sun. The state’s pristine wilderness, glaciers, and abundant wildlife make it a year-round destination for adventurers and nature lovers, though the extreme weather requires careful planning and appropriate gear for each season.
Average Temperature and Precipitation by Month
Month | Avg Temp (°F) | Avg Temp (°C) | Avg Precipitation (inches) |
---|---|---|---|
January | 10°F | -12°C | 2.2 |
February | 15°F | -9°C | 1.7 |
March | 20°F | -6°C | 1.5 |
April | 33°F | 1°C | 1.0 |
May | 45°F | 7°C | 0.8 |
June | 55°F | 13°C | 1.2 |
July | 60°F | 16°C | 2.0 |
August | 58°F | 14°C | 2.9 |
September | 50°F | 10°C | 3.4 |
October | 35°F | 2°C | 3.3 |
November | 20°F | -6°C | 2.4 |
December | 13°F | -11°C | 2.1 |
Monthly Weather, Clothing, and Landmarks
January
Weather: January is one of the coldest months in Alaska, with temperatures ranging from -20°F to 5°F (-29°C to -15°C) in the interior, while coastal areas like Anchorage might experience milder conditions ranging from 10°F to 25°F (-12°C to -4°C). Snowfall is frequent, and daylight is minimal, especially in northern regions where the sun may not rise at all.
Clothing: To combat the extreme cold, wear heavy-duty winter clothing, including insulated jackets, thermal layers, waterproof boots, and gloves. A warm hat that covers the ears and a face mask or balaclava are essential to protect against frostbite. In areas with heavy snow, waterproof outer layers and snow boots with good traction are necessary.
Landmarks: January is the perfect time to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Fairbanks, where the long nights provide optimal viewing conditions. For those seeking adventure, the Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique experience of soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow. Additionally, visiting the Iditarod Trail Headquarters in Wasilla can give a preview of the famous dog sled race that begins later in the winter.
February
Weather: February remains extremely cold in Alaska, with temperatures similar to January, ranging from -15°F to 10°F (-26°C to -12°C) in the interior. Coastal areas might see slightly warmer temperatures but still well below freezing. Snowfall continues, and daylight gradually increases as the month progresses.
Clothing: Continue to wear heavy winter gear, including insulated and waterproof outerwear. Layering is key, with thermal underwear, fleece layers, and down jackets being essential. Protecting extremities with thick gloves, wool socks, and warm boots is crucial for outdoor activities.
Landmarks: February is an excellent month for winter sports enthusiasts. Visit Alyeska Resort near Anchorage, Alaska’s premier ski destination, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The month also offers the opportunity to witness the start of the Fur Rendezvous in Anchorage, a winter festival featuring ice sculptures, snowshoe softball, and the World Championship Sled Dog Races.
March
Weather: March signals the beginning of a slow transition towards spring, with temperatures ranging from 5°F to 25°F (-15°C to -4°C) in the interior and slightly warmer along the coast. Snow is still abundant, but the days start to lengthen significantly, bringing more daylight.
Clothing: Dress warmly with continued use of thermal layers, insulated jackets, and waterproof boots. The increased sunlight can create glare off the snow, so sunglasses or goggles are recommended. A windproof outer layer is useful for combating chilly breezes.
Landmarks: March is a prime time to experience the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which kicks off in Anchorage and follows a grueling 1,000-mile route to Nome. For those interested in ice fishing, the frozen lakes around Fairbanks and the Mat-Su Valley offer excellent opportunities to catch fish like trout and pike through holes in the ice.
April
Weather: April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C). The snow begins to melt, particularly in the southern regions, leading to slushy conditions. Days become much longer, with increasing sunlight.
Clothing: Layering is still important in April, but you can start to switch to lighter jackets and waterproof boots. As the snow melts, waterproof gear is essential to stay dry. Sunglasses or goggles help manage the bright glare from the sun reflecting off the remaining snow.
Landmarks: As the snow starts to melt, April is a good time to visit Denali National Park. While the main park road may still be closed due to snow, the lower areas begin to open up for wildlife viewing and early spring hikes. The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward is another great destination, where you can learn about marine life native to Alaska and enjoy the budding spring scenery along the coast.
May
Weather: May marks the arrival of spring in earnest, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 55°F (2°C to 13°C). Snow continues to melt rapidly, particularly in the interior and southern regions, giving way to greener landscapes. The days become long, with nearly 18 hours of daylight in some areas.
Clothing: As temperatures rise, you can switch to lighter clothing like fleece jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and waterproof hiking boots. Layers are still important, especially in the morning and evening when temperatures can drop. Rain gear is also advisable as snowmelt can lead to muddy and wet conditions.
Landmarks: May is an ideal time to visit Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can witness the dramatic transition from winter to spring. Take a boat tour to see glaciers, marine wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery. Another highlight is the Alaska Railroad’s summer season, which begins in May, offering scenic train journeys from Anchorage to destinations like Seward and Denali.
June
Weather: June brings the start of summer, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C). The days are long, often featuring 20+ hours of daylight in some parts of the state. Snow is mostly gone except at the highest elevations, and the landscape is lush and green.
Clothing: Light layers are best for June, with a focus on breathable fabrics like cotton or light wool. A waterproof jacket is essential for the occasional rain shower. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for exploring Alaska’s rugged terrain.
Landmarks: June is a perfect time to explore Denali National Park, which is fully accessible and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and scenic drives along the park road. Glacier Bay National Park is another must-see, where you can take a boat or kayak tour to see massive tidewater glaciers and diverse marine life, including whales and seals.
July
Weather: July is the warmest month in Alaska, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). The long days continue, with some areas experiencing nearly 24 hours of daylight. July is also one of the driest months, though rain is still possible, especially in coastal areas.
Clothing: Light and breathable clothing is ideal for July, including t-shirts, shorts, and hiking pants. A light jacket or fleece may be needed for cooler mornings or evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses, as the extended daylight can be intense.
Landmarks: July is perfect for exploring Alaska’s national parks, including Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest in the U.S., where you can hike, camp, and even explore old mining sites. The Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer is another popular destination, offering events and exhibits that celebrate Alaska’s unique culture and agricultural heritage.
August
Weather: August remains warm but begins to transition towards autumn, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C). Rainfall increases, particularly in the coastal regions, and the days start to shorten slightly.
Clothing: Continue wearing light layers, but prepare for more rain by packing a waterproof jacket and pants. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for navigating wet trails. A hat and sunglasses are still useful for sun protection during the day.
Landmarks: August is an excellent time to visit Katmai National Park, where you can witness the famous brown bears fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls. Another great destination is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Anchorage, where you can see native wildlife up close, including bears, moose, and bison.
September
Weather: September brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 35°F to 55°F (2°C to 13°C), and the first hints of fall color in the foliage. The days continue to shorten, and rainfall remains high, especially in the southern regions.
Clothing: Layering becomes essential again in September, with a focus on warmth and waterproofing. A fleece jacket, waterproof outer layers, and insulated boots will help you stay comfortable as temperatures drop. A beanie and gloves may be necessary for cooler mornings.
Landmarks: September is a beautiful time to visit the Kenai Peninsula, where the fall colors create a stunning backdrop for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Denali Highway, open until early October, offers a scenic drive with opportunities to see autumn foliage and possibly the northern lights as the nights grow longer.
October
Weather: October sees a significant drop in temperatures, ranging from 25°F to 40°F (-4°C to 4°C), with the first snowfalls occurring in many parts of the state. Daylight hours dwindle, and the weather becomes increasingly unpredictable.
Clothing: Dress warmly in October with insulated jackets, thermal layers, and waterproof boots. A hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential as the cold sets in. Prepare for snowy and icy conditions, especially if you plan to travel.
Landmarks: October is a great time to visit the Matanuska Glacier, where the cooler weather makes for a crisp and clear glacier viewing experience. The city of Sitka also celebrates Alaska Day in mid-October, with parades and historical reenactments marking the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States.
November
Weather: November is cold, with temperatures ranging from 15°F to 30°F (-9°C to -1°C) and frequent snowfall, especially in the interior and northern regions. The days are short, and winter begins to take hold across the state.
Clothing: Winter gear becomes a necessity in November. Insulated and waterproof jackets, thermal underwear, thick gloves, and warm hats are all essential. Snow boots with good traction are important for navigating icy conditions.
Landmarks: November is a good time to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, where you can learn about the rich cultures and traditions of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. Additionally, the early snow provides excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding at Alyeska Resort, which typically opens for the winter season in late November.
December
Weather: December in Alaska is dominated by cold and darkness, with temperatures ranging from -5°F to 15°F (-21°C to -9°C) in the interior and slightly warmer in coastal areas. Snowfall is frequent, and daylight is minimal, especially in the far north.
Clothing: Heavier winter clothing is necessary, including down jackets, thermal layers, snow boots, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. In extreme cold, additional face protection is recommended to prevent frostbite.
Landmarks: December is a magical time to experience the Northern Lights, particularly in Fairbanks, where the long nights provide ample opportunity for viewing. The winter solstice celebrations in various communities, such as Anchorage’s Winter Solstice Festival, offer unique Alaskan traditions, including ice sculptures, light displays, and outdoor winter activities.