Weather in Barter Island

Planning a visit to Barter Island? Check out the current weather situation and forecasts in this section to ensure your journey is flawless.

The climate of Barter Island can be described as harsh arctic. It is a unique corner of the United States where nature displays its Nordic character: long frosty winters reign here, and summers are so cool that one should not expect the usual warmth.

Seasons change, but low temperatures remain the dominant factor all year round. Even in the "warmest" months, July and August, the thermometer averages only +6 °C. The winter period lasts for most of the year, accompanied by stable frosts, when temperatures often drop below -20 °C.

Precipitation on the island is low, however, in summer and early autumn, the number of wet days increases noticeably. Travellers should be prepared for frequent cloudiness and piercing winds, so high-quality warm equipment is essential here at any time of the year.

The temperature regime in Barter Island is characterized by harsh arctic conditions with a long freezing winter. The coldest month of the year is February, when the average temperature drops to -22.8°C, and nightly lows can reach almost -25°C. January and December are also distinguished by severe frosts, keeping thermometer readings in the range of -17°C to -24°C. Spring warming arrives extremely slowly: even in April, the average temperature is around -12.6°C.

Summer in this region of the United States is very short and cool, more reminiscent of late autumn in temperate latitudes. July is considered the warmest month with an average temperature of just +6.1°C. At the height of summer, the daytime air warms up to a maximum of +8°C, while nights remain cold, around +4°C. Positive temperatures hold steadily only from June to September, after which rapid cooling begins again.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the insignificant amplitude of daily temperature fluctuations. The difference between day and night readings is minimal at any time of year and rarely exceeds 3–4 degrees. This means the weather remains stable throughout the day: constantly frosty in winter, and even and cool in summer, without sharp spikes of heat during daylight hours.

The climate on Barter Island is harsh and has features of a polar desert, so the nature of precipitation here is specific. Due to low temperatures for most of the year, from October to May, moisture falls exclusively as snow. At the same time, the total volume of precipitation is extremely small (only 1–2 mm per month), so heavy snowfalls are rare here; more often it is light snow dust carried by the wind, or frost.

The "wettest" period, judging by the number of inclement days, falls in the second half of summer and early autumn. The cloudiest month is August, when about 14 days with precipitation are recorded, followed by July and October. Considering that even in summer the temperature barely exceeds +6°C, light prolonged rains, dense fogs, and wet snow are possible at this time.

Spring is considered the driest time of the year. In March and April, the probability of precipitation is minimal: statistics show only 3–4 "wet" days per month with practically zero moisture accumulation. This is a period of the most stable, albeit frosty weather, when the sky most often remains clear.

Preparing for a trip to Barter Island requires special attention to equipment, as this region is distinguished by a harsh arctic climate. The main principle of clothing here is layering, which will allow you to retain heat and quickly adapt to weather changes. Even in the warmest summer months, when temperatures rarely exceed +8°C, forget about shorts and t-shirts: you will need thick trousers, fleece jumpers, and a reliable windproof jacket.

If you plan a trip during the cold season, which lasts most of the year here with temperatures dropping below -20°C, be sure to take high-quality thermal underwear and a warm parka with a hood. Footwear is critically important: it must be insulated, waterproof, and have a thick sole to protect your feet from freezing on snow and ice. Do not forget accessories: warm mittens, a hat, and a scarf are vital for protection against the piercing wind.

Despite the cold, the sun in these latitudes can be active, and its rays, reflecting off snow or water, create a strong strain on the eyes and skin. Therefore, sunglasses and cream with an SPF factor are mandatory items in your luggage at any time of the year. It is also recommended to bring a raincoat or waterproof cape, as even light precipitation combined with wind can cause discomfort.