Weather in Shungnak

Planning your visit? Stay informed about the latest meteorological changes when preparing for your trip to Shungnak. In this section, you will find up-to-date data, charts, and weather forecasts.

The climate in Shungnak can be described as severe subarctic, which is quite typical for the state of Alaska. This remote region of the United States is characterised by a long, frosty winter that occupies most of the year, and a short, cool summer. Travellers should be prepared for serious weather conditions and carefully consider their clothing choices.

The winter season lasts here from October to April, accompanied by stable sub-zero temperatures; in January, the thermometer typically drops to an average of -23°C. Summer brings significant warming, although one should not expect heat. In July, the warmest month of the year, daytime temperatures usually reach comfortable marks of +18...+19°C. This time is considered the best for visiting if you wish to avoid the extreme cold.

An interesting feature of the local climate is the nature of the precipitation. Although the total volume in millimetres is extremely low, the number of wet days remains high, especially in summer (up to 16–18 days per month). This indicates frequent overcast weather with light drizzle or light snow, rather than heavy downpours. Tourists are advised to always carry a waterproof windbreaker, even if the forecast promises warming.

Climatic conditions in this region are distinguished by the severity characteristic of northern latitudes. Shungnak greets travellers with a prolonged and frosty winter. The coldest month of the year is traditionally January, when the average temperature drops to -23.1°C, and night frosts can reach -26.0°C. Stable negative temperatures dominate here from October to April, requiring tourists to prepare thoroughly with warm equipment.

The summer period here is short and cool; there is no exhausting heat in this part of the United States. The peak of warmth occurs in July, when the air warms up to an average of +15.0°C, and maximum daytime values reach a comfortable +18.7°C. June and August also offer positive temperatures (averaging +13.7°C and +11.2°C respectively), however, even at the height of summer, the weather remains fresh rather than hot.

The transition between seasons passes rapidly. Spring warming becomes perceptible only in May, when the average temperature settles at +5.3°C, and by September, noticeable cooling begins before the long winter. The difference between day and night temperatures throughout the year averages 4–6 degrees, so even on the warmest summer days, the evenings can be quite cool.

The nature of precipitation in Shungnak is closely linked to the severe temperature regime of this region. During the winter period, moisture falls exclusively as snow, yet its intensity is low — only 1–2 mm per month. The frequency of snowfall varies: while December, February, and March record 10–11 snowy days, January is usually clearer, with an average of about 6 days with precipitation.

Summer brings not only warming but also a noticeable increase in the frequency of precipitation. The "wettest" period of the year is the end of the season: in July and August, the number of days with precipitation reaches a maximum — 16 and 18 days respectively. Rains occur during this time, but their volume remains modest (up to 5 mm), which suggests a prevalence of light drizzle rather than prolonged heavy rains.

The driest time of the year can be considered spring. In April and May, precipitation levels are minimal (about 1 mm), and the number of inclement days does not exceed eight. In autumn, starting from September, the frequency of rains increases again, and by October, with the return of negative temperatures, precipitation once again changes to snow, marking the beginning of the long winter.

When setting off for Shungnak, it is important to remember that this is a place with a severe northern climate where true heat does not occur even in summer. The main principle for building a wardrobe here is layering. In winter, when frosts often exceed -20°C, high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters, and a reliable down parka with wind protection are vital. Do not forget insulated waterproof trousers, a warm hat with ear flaps, a scarf, and mittens, which retain heat better than gloves, as well as special winter footwear with thick soles.

The summer period, although the warmest, is characterised by frequent precipitation and cool evenings, so light clothing will hardly be useful. For a trip in June-August, it is better to take fleece jackets, dense trousers, and definitely a high-quality membrane jacket or raincoat, as the number of rainy days at this time is high. Comfortable trekking boots with water-repellent treatment will be the best choice for walking around the area.

Regardless of the season, when travelling through northern regions, which include this part of the country (United States), it is important to have sunglasses: they are necessary both for protection from the summer sun and from the blinding glare on the snow in spring. It is also recommended to bring moisturising cream and lip balm to protect the skin from windburn and dry frosty air.