September marks the formal arrival of autumn in
Alaska, and with it comes a noticeable shift in the state's climate and environment. Cities like Anchorage, nestled between mountain ranges and the sea, start to exhibit the classic fall colors and cooler temperatures associated with this season.
In comparison to
August, September sees a more rapid decrease in daylight hours. The sun casts a more slanted, golden light, creating picturesque sunsets and elongating the shadows of the landscape. Temperatures, while still mild at the beginning, begin to drop steadily as the month progresses.
Rain remains a significant feature of September, particularly in the southeastern parts of the state. As the month advances, higher elevations and more northern locations might even witness their first snowflakes, signaling the coming winter. This mix of rain and potential snow makes September a month of diverse weather experiences across Alaska.
The rivers, which were abundant and flowing freely in the summer, begin to slow their pace. Their waters cool, and the life within them also prepares for the change in seasons. While fishing is still possible, it's not as bountiful as the peak summer months.
September is often celebrated for its tapestry of fall colors. The state's deciduous trees, especially those in the interior and southcentral regions, burst forth in vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold. This kaleidoscope of colors against the backdrop of evergreens creates breathtaking vistas, a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The average temperatures are in the mild to cold 41°F (5°C) to 48°F (8.9°C) zone, with snowfall to the tune of 4.4" (112mm) statewide.
Wildlife behaviors continue to evolve with the approaching winter. Bears, for instance, become hyperactive, foraging and feeding in preparation for their winter hibernation. Birds, particularly migratory species, start their southward journeys, filling the skies with their patterns.
September in Alaska is a month of beauty and transition. The warmth of summer fades, replaced by the crisp and colorful embrace of autumn, which in turn hints at the colder months ahead. It's a period of reflection, preparation, and appreciation for the state's ever-changing nature.
- Anchorage - September »
In Anchorage, Alaska, during September, the rain falls for 16 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.93" (49mm) of precipitation. On the first day of September in Anchorage sunrise is at 6:53 am and sunset at 9:04 pm. - Juneau - September »
In Juneau in September, it is raining for 21.9 days, with typically 8.27" (210mm) of accumulated precipitation. On the last day of September, in Juneau, sunrise is at 7:01 am and sunset at 6:32 pm AKDT. - Fairbanks - September »
In Fairbanks during September, the rain falls for 13.1 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.26" (32mm) of precipitation. In Fairbanks, in September, during 1.6 snowfall days, 0.79" (20mm) of snow is typically accumulated. - Wasilla - September »
In Wasilla snow does not fall in June through September. On the first day of September in Wasilla, sunrise is at 6:51 am and sunset at 9:03 pm. - Sitka - September »
In Sitka during September, the rain falls for 21.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 7.91" (201mm) of precipitation. On the first day of September in Sitka sunrise is at 6:05 am and sunset at 7:56 pm. - Ketchikan - September »
In Ketchikan, in September, during 19.3 rainfall days, 6.85" (174mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. In September, in Ketchikan the rain falls for 19.3 days. - Kenai - September »
On the last day of September, in Kenai sunrise is at 8:10 am and sunset at 7:38 pm AKDT. On the first day of September in Kenai sunrise is at 7:01 am and sunset at 9:08 pm. - Kodiak - September »
The Kodiak, Alaska weather in September, presents an interplay of summer and autumn, with temperature and rainfall changes becoming more noticeable. In Kodiak, during September, the rain falls for 17.6 days and regularly aggregates up to 3.27" (83mm) of precipitation. - Bethel - September »
In Bethel, in September, during 15.5 rainfall days, 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Bethel, during September, the rain falls for 15.5 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation. - Palmer - September »
In September, in Palmer the rain falls for 20.6 days. September is the first month it typically snows in Palmer, Alaska. - Homer - September »
In Homer in September, it is raining for 19.9 days, with typically 3.86" (98mm) of accumulated precipitation. On the first day of September in Homer, sunrise is at 7:04 am and sunset at 9:07 pm. - Unalaska - September »
Come September, the summer heat in Unalaska starts to ease off, reflected in the minor decrease in average temperatures, signalling the onset of fall. In Unalaska, Alaska, during September, the rain falls for 19.8 days and regularly aggregates up to 2.72" (69mm) of precipitation.