Alaska weather

Read our complete guide to the weather in Alaska.

Below are the temperatures expected today at popular destinations in Alaska. Select a destination to compare today's forecast with average weather conditions.

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The weather guide for Alaska (Anchorage) shows long term weather averages processed from data supplied by CRU (University of East Anglia) & today's weather forecast provided by meteoblue. Find out more about our data sources.

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

When is the best time to go to Alaska?

The best time to go to Alaska (Anchorage) is July based on the following average weather conditions.

Maximum daytime temperature = 22 - 30°C [remove]
Daily hours of sunshine = 10 hours or more [remove]

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Max Day Temperature (°C)

  • -6°C maximum daytime temperature in January in Alaska (Anchorage)-6
    Jan
  • -3°C maximum daytime temperature in February in Alaska (Anchorage)-3
    Feb
  • 0°C maximum daytime temperature in March in Alaska (Anchorage)0
    Mar
  • 6°C maximum daytime temperature in April in Alaska (Anchorage)6
    Apr
  • 12°C maximum daytime temperature in May in Alaska (Anchorage)12
    May
  • 16°C maximum daytime temperature in June in Alaska (Anchorage)16
    Jun
  • 19°C maximum daytime temperature in July in Alaska (Anchorage)19
    Jul
  • 17°C maximum daytime temperature in August in Alaska (Anchorage)17
    Aug
  • 13°C maximum daytime temperature in September in Alaska (Anchorage)13
    Sep
  • 5°C maximum daytime temperature in October in Alaska (Anchorage)5
    Oct
  • -3°C maximum daytime temperature in November in Alaska (Anchorage)-3
    Nov
  • -6°C maximum daytime temperature in December in Alaska (Anchorage)-6
    Dec

Hours of Sunshine (daily)

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Best time to go for the weather

Metric (°C / mm)  |  Imperial (°F / inches)

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Alaska weather overview

The largest of the American states is a popular haunt for cruise ships in the summer months when people flock from all over the world to view its wildlife and dramatic glaciers.

Much of the state is mountainous, hence those glaciers, but there are broad lowlands in the interior which, together with the north coast, have an Arctic or subarctic climate of permanent snow and ice.

Summers in Alaska, though brief, are surprisingly warm; cruise passengers stand in shirtsleeves taking pictures of icebergs in temperatures which can reach 30°C (mid 80°F).

However, rain can be very heavy in summer along the coast, which is generally cooler than inland. Conversely, the coastline gets milder weather during Alaska's long, dark and severe winters.

Visit in June to make the most of sunny days and, in some parts, the 'white nights' which make them endless. Whenever you go, be prepared for cloudy, foggy days.

What to pack for Alaska weather

Take light to medium clothes in the summer with sturdy boots and effective waterproofs. In winter, take the works: thermal underwear, windproof and waterproof clothing, warm hats, gloves and boots, scarves and ear mutts as the winter wind chill can be a killer.

More about the USA

Which is the hottest month in Alaska?

The hottest time of year in Anchorage, Alaska is normally July. Expect maximum daytime temperatures to reach 19°C.

Which month has the most rain in Alaska?

In terms of rainfall, September is usually the wettest month in Anchorage, Alaska with 68mm on average. There are normally 14 days in September with some rain.

When is it sunniest in Alaska?

The sunniest time of year in Anchorage, Alaska is normally March with bright sunshine on average for 54% of daylight hours; that's 6 hours of sunshine per day.

When is the sea warmest in Alaska?

The sea is usually at its warmest in Anchorage, Alaska in August when the water temperature reaches 14°C.

Compare Alaska weather with the USA

Below the Alaska weather chart shows average maximum daytime temperature for Alaska, USA (Anchorage) and the USA (Washington).

Maximum daytime temperature (°C)

Alaska, USA (Anchorage)
USA (Washington)
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Metric (°C / mm)  |  Imperial (°F / inches)

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