Weather in Fairbanks

Find out what weather awaits you in Fairbanks right now. Below, we have prepared a summary of current meteorological data, convenient charts, and a forecast for the coming days.

The climate of Fairbanks can be described as subarctic, characterized by impressive temperature contrasts throughout the year. Located deep in Alaska, the city is known for its harsh, long winters and surprisingly warm, though short, summers. Seasonality is pronounced here, so your trip experience will differ radically depending on whether you choose to visit in snowy January or sunny July.

The winter period lasts from November to March and is accompanied by severe frosts: the average temperature in January drops to -19.4°C, and minimums can reach even lower values. This time is suitable for lovers of true northern exoticism. Summer brings long-awaited warmth: in June and July, the thermometer often rises above +21°C, making the weather comfortable for active outdoor recreation. However, it is worth noting that the summer months, especially August, are the wettest, with a large number of rainy days.

Transitional seasons in this region of the USA are rapid. Spring begins with cold weather, but by May the air warms up to comfortable levels. Autumn comes quickly: if in September you can still enjoy coolness around +8°C, frosts return by October. Such dynamic weather requires travelers to carefully choose their clothing to be ready for any of nature's surprises.

The climate in Fairbanks is characterized by an impressive contrast between seasons, offering tourists a completely different experience depending on the time of year. The coldest month is January, when the average temperature drops to -19.4°C, and night frosts can reach -22.4°C. Conversely, the warmest time of the year is considered July: during this period, the air warms up to an average of 17.5°C, and daytime figures often exceed the 22°C mark, making mid-summer the most comfortable for visiting.

Winter in this region of the USA is harsh and prolonged. Stable sub-zero temperatures set in from November to March, requiring serious preparation and warm clothing from travelers. It is especially frosty in December and January, when even during the day the thermometer rarely rises above -13°C. However, spring brings rapid warming: while winter cold persists in March, by May daytime maximums reach a pleasant 14.9°C.

Summer in Fairbanks can be characterized as mild and moderately warm, without exhausting heat. In June and July, daytime temperatures fluctuate around 21-22°C, creating ideal conditions for walks and exploring nature. At the same time, noticeable diurnal fluctuations should be taken into account: even in the warmest summer months, nights remain fresh and cool, with temperatures around 11-13°C, so having a light jacket or sweater will be useful even at the height of the season.

Precipitation in Fairbanks is distributed unevenly throughout the year, and its character depends directly on seasonal temperatures. The winter period, lasting from November to March, is considered the driest time. Due to low temperatures, moisture falls exclusively as snow, which forms a stable cover. The "driest" month is January, when the minimum amount of precipitation is recorded, and snowy days occur on average only 5 times a month.

With the arrival of warmth, the frequency of precipitation increases noticeably. Summer can be called a kind of "rainy season," although rains are not always prolonged. The peak of humidity falls on the end of summer: August is the leader in the number of inclement days — it can rain for about 18 days a month. June and July are also distinguished by a high frequency of precipitation (13–14 days), so an umbrella or raincoat will become indispensable companions for a summer trip.

Transitional seasons, such as April and October, are characterized by mixed types of precipitation. At this time, rain can alternate with wet snow, as average temperatures hover around zero. In general, despite the fact that the total volume of precipitation in millimeters may seem small, the high frequency of rainy days in summer requires tourists to be ready for changeable weather.

Fairbanks is known for its harsh climate, so preparing for a trip requires special attention, especially in winter. In the period from November to March, when the average temperature drops to -20°C and below, high-quality winter gear is vital for you. Be sure to take thermal underwear, warm wool sweaters, a windproof down jacket with a hood, and insulated trousers. Do not forget about accessories: mittens (they are often warmer than gloves), a hat that covers the ears tightly, and a scarf. Footwear should be not only warm but also have a non-slip sole for comfortable movement on snow and ice.

Summer in Fairbanks, on the contrary, can be surprisingly pleasant, with temperatures up to +22°C in July, however, the weather here is changeable. The best strategy is the layering principle. Take T-shirts, a fleece jacket, and a light windbreaker or raincoat with you, as frequent rainy days are possible in the summer months, especially in August. Comfortable trekking boots or sturdy sneakers will be the ideal choice for long walks around the city and picturesque surroundings.

Regardless of the season, there are several universal items worth putting in your suitcase. Sunglasses will come in handy both in the bright summer and in winter to protect your eyes from the blinding sun reflected off the snow. If you are planning a trip in the warm season, be sure to grab insect repellent, as mosquitoes in Alaska can be quite active. In addition, given the low temperatures in winter, gadget batteries drain much faster, so an external battery (power bank) will be an indispensable assistant for your phone or camera.