Weather in Anchorage

Learn all about the current weather conditions in Anchorage to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible. This section features up-to-date forecasts and visual charts to help you plan your trip.

The climate in Anchorage can be described as subarctic, but with significant maritime influence that noticeably moderates the weather conditions. Unlike continental Alaska, there are no extremely severe frosts here, but one should not expect intense heat either. The weather is generally moderately cool, making the city a comfortable destination for those who prefer fresh air to stifling heat.

The seasons here are quite distinct, although summer arrives late and is short-lived. The summer months, especially July, offer mild warmth with average temperatures around 14–15°C, which is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter is long and snowy, with consistent freezing temperatures from November to March, when the thermometer drops to an average of -9°C.

Tourists should note that the weather in Anchorage can be changeable and wet. Precipitation occurs regularly throughout the year; however, late summer and early autumn (August and September) stand out as the wettest period, with up to 20 rainy days per month. When planning your trip, definitely pack a waterproof windbreaker and warm layered clothing, regardless of the season.

The temperature patterns in Anchorage have a distinct northern character, remaining fresh even during the warmest months. The annual temperature range is quite wide: from steady frosts in winter to moderate warmth in summer. Traditionally, the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of about -8.7°C and lows dropping to -11.1°C. Conversely, the peak warmth occurs in July, when the air warms to an average of 14.6°C, and daily highs reach a comfortable 17.7°C.

The winter period here is long and truly frosty. From November to March, average temperatures consistently stay below freezing, creating ideal conditions for lovers of snowy landscapes and winter sports. Spring arrives gradually: the breath of winter is still felt in March, and temperatures confidently rise above freezing only in April. Autumn arrives rapidly—by October, the average temperature drops to 2.6°C, preparing the city for the coming cold.

Summer in Anchorage can be described as cool and mild, without stifling heat. From June to August, average daily temperatures range between 12-15°C, which is ideal for outdoor activities but requires warm clothing in your luggage. It is worth noting that daily temperature fluctuations here are not too drastic: the difference between daily highs and nightly lows is usually only 3-5 degrees, ensuring relatively stable temperatures throughout the day.

Precipitation in Anchorage falls quite frequently throughout the year, although its nature and intensity vary depending on the season. Due to the city's northern location, for a significant part of the year when temperatures remain below freezing (mainly from November to March), precipitation falls as snow, creating picturesque winter landscapes. During the warmer months, from May to September, rain prevails.

The wettest period is considered to be late summer and early autumn. August and September lead in both precipitation amount (up to 5 mm) and the frequency of inclement days—an average of 20 rainy days are recorded during these months. If you are planning a trip at this time, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes will be indispensable items in your luggage.

According to statistics, the driest month of the year is April. During this time, precipitation drops to a minimum (about 1 mm), and the number of days with precipitation is only around 10. This is the spring shoulder season, when the likelihood of prolonged rain or snowfall is lowest compared to the rest of the year.

A trip to Anchorage requires careful consideration of your wardrobe, with layering being the key principle. Since the weather here can be changeable and even the warmest summer months, July and August, rarely offer intense heat (average temperatures stay around +14°C), you should pack items that are easy to combine. Start with thermal underwear or light t-shirts, add a fleece jacket or sweater for warmth, and always keep a windproof jacket handy as a top layer.

If your trip is planned for the winter period, from November to March, be sure to pack a warm down jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves, as the thermometer often drops below -10°C. In summer and early autumn, despite more comfortable temperatures, there is a high probability of precipitation—August and September are notable for a high number of rainy days (up to 20 days per month). Therefore, a high-quality raincoat or waterproof windbreaker will be your best friend during nature walks.

Pay special attention to footwear: insulated, non-slip boots are essential for winter visits, while comfortable trainers or trekking boots with water-repellent treatment are suitable for summer hikes in the picturesque surroundings. Don't forget to pack sunglasses and SPF cream: in winter, they will protect your eyes and skin from the bright light reflecting off the snow, and in summer, they will come in handy during long sunny days.