The climate of Bethel
Bethel,
Alaska located in the United states endures a subarctic climate, as indicated by its Dfc Köppen climate classification. This climate type is synonymous with harsh winters, no dry season, and relatively cool summers. Throughout the year, the region's weather is very dynamic, ranging from extended hours of daylight to remarkably chilly temperatures.
Going by the available climatological data, Bethel experiences changes in various weather parameters. The daytime high-temperature fluctuates from a minimal 12.2°F (-11°C) in
January, ascending to a peak of 62.4°F (16.9°C) in
July. Correspondingly, the nighttime low ranges from a very cold 3.7°F (-15.7°C) in January to a milder 49.6°F (9.8°C) in July, signifying the wide temperature variation within a year.
Rainfall distribution is fairly even over the twelve months, with July being the wettest month, receiving approximately 2.09" (53mm) of rain. Snowfall, however, is predominantly prevalent from
November to
March with January recording the highest amounts at 4.96" (126mm). The area is also characterized by high humidity levels, mostly exceeding the 65% mark year-round and peaking at 91% in January,
February, and March.
The best time to visit Bethel
Considered by many
Bethel residents and visitors alike, summer - specifically
June to
August- tends to be the most convenient time to visit. The weather during these months is relatively dry, with temperatures ascending to a friendly 62.1°F (16.7°C) to 62.4°F (16.9°C). Correspondingly, daylight hours are longest, averaging between 18.2 hours to 19 hours, providing ample time to explore the beautiful landscapes of Bethel.
The worst time to visit Bethel
Winter months, specifically
December through
February, could be reasonably challenging for visitors. Temperatures during this period tend to be exceedingly low, dropping to as little as 3.7°F (-15.7°C), potentially imbuing discomfort even for the hardiest of visitors. Snowfall is also considerably heavy, thus possibly limiting outdoor activities. The region also experiences shorter daylight hours during these months, averaging between 5.8 hours to 6.7 hours.
Spring weather in Bethel
Spring in
Bethel, which takes place from
March to
May, witnesses an upward shift in temperatures from a high of 20.1°F (-6.6°C) in March to 51.6°F (10.9°C) in May, and lows escalating from 8.4°F (-13.1°C) to 37.9°F (3.3°C). The area records rainfall ranging from 0.94" (24mm) to 1.14" (29mm) and snowfall reducing to zero towards the end of spring in May. Humidity levels are relatively high, typically hovering around 85% in March to 68% at the end of spring.
Summer weather in Bethel
Summer rolls into
Bethel from
June up until
August, and days majorly consist of comfortable temperatures, ranging from highs between 62.1°F (16.7°C) and 62.4°F (16.9°C) and lows from 47.1°F (8.4°C) to 49.6°F (9.8°C). Rainfall steadily ascends to peak at 2.09" (53mm) in August, whereas snowfall is non-existent within this span. Humidity is relatively lower, hovering around 65% to 76% coupled with a substantial 19 hours of daylight in June.
Autumn weather in Bethel
In the autumn months of
September to
November, daily high temperatures deteriorate from a pleasant 52.5°F (11.4°C) in September to a bitter cold 23.2°F (-4.9°C) in November. Correspondingly, lows decline from 41.5°F (5.3°C) down to 16.2°F (-8.8°C). Rainfall is reasonably steady at approximately 1.85" (47mm) in September and 1.54" (39mm) in November, and snowfall recommences in
October with November recording 3.19" (81mm).
Winter weather in Bethel
Bethel's winter period, which spans
December through
February, mostly treats the inhabitants and visitors to a harsh blend of freezing temperatures, with highs of 16.7°F (-8.5°C) in December to 12.2°F (-11°C) in
January, and lows plunging to 7.9°F (-13.4°C) in December and 3.7°F (-15.7°C) in January. This season also observes the highest snowfall rates, with 3.5" (89mm) in December and 4.96" (126mm) in January. Humidity remains consistently high, averaging 90% in both December and February.
Weather in January
January bears the brunt of winter in
Bethel,
Alaska, with snow frequently gracing the landscape. Temperatures fall to their lowest point of the year, with average readings fluctuating from 12.2°F (-11°C) to 3.7°F (-15.7°C).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February shows a slight upturn in temperatures, as the
Bethel weather system prepares for the spring transition. Snowfall inches increase to 4.96" (126mm), adding more depth to the winter wonderland effect across the region. An increase in daylight hours to 9.1 hours indicates the impending transition to longer days.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March signals the beginning of the glacial thaw, as temperatures show a gradual increase. A lesser snowfall of 3.86" (98mm) indicates a diminishing presence of winter, paving the way for spring. The daylight window broadens to almost 12 hours, casting a beautiful play of light on the melting snow.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a respite from the frigid months, as temperatures start to soar, ranging from 35.1°F (1.7°C) to 23.7°F (-4.6°C). The snow melts away substantially, with snowfall reduced to 2.09" (53mm), heralding the onset of spring.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May marks the full arrival of spring in
Bethel, with noticeable warming in temperatures. Rainfall increases to 1.14" (29mm), nourishing the terrain leading to a bloom in the local flora. The balance of light and temperate weather creates a pleasing ambience all around.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings sizzling weather to
Bethel, marking the onset of the summer season. Average temperatures edge towards the warm season's peak of 62.1°F (16.7°C) to 47.1°F (8.4°C). The longest daylight hours of the year are recorded, extending up to 19 hours.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in
Bethel with temperatures soaring to the year's top at 62.4°F (16.9°C). The rainfall inches increase to their highest at 1.73" (44mm) contributing to the lush greenery. It's the perfect time for outdoor barbecues and picnics under the sun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August sees slight cooling, with temperatures dropping from
July’s peak to between 59.9°F (15.5°C) to 47.8°F (8.8°C). Increased cloud cover and highest rainfall of the year, 2.09" (53mm), ensures the lushness continues. While sunshine hours start to decrease, they are still ample for outdoor activities.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings an end to the warm summer days, with temperatures decreasing considerably. With a decrease in rainfall to 1.85" (47mm), the surroundings start to dry and prepare for the upcoming cold. Daylight time decreases significantly, indicating the approaching end of summer.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October triggers a steep decline in temperatures, heralding the dominant, cold weather. Instances of snowfall return, amounting up to 1.26" (32mm), blanketing
Bethel in a nascent layer of winter white. The transition to colder temperatures begins to manifest in the landscape, with bare trees dominating the view.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November plunges
Bethel into a winter whirl, with temperatures spiraling downwards to an average of 23.2°F (-4.9°C). Increased snowfall of 3.19" (81mm) contributes to transforming the city into a winter wonderland. The cloudy skies, short daylight, and biting winds mark the onset of the harsh winter months.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings the year to a close on a cold note, with freezing temperatures testing the endurance of those in
Bethel. Snowfall increases to its highest annual at 3.5" (89mm), turning the city into a winter paradise. The frigid weather encourages indoor activities, further fostering the season's festive spirit.
Weather in December »