Climate and monthly weather forecast
Bethel, AK

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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 »

Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest?

With an average high-temperature of 12.2°F (-11°C) and an average low-temperature of 3.7°F (-15.7°C), January is the coldest month.

What are the most humid months in Bethel?

The months with the highest humidity are January through March, with an average relative humidity of 91%.

What is the driest month?

January and April are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 5.5 days and typically aggregates up to 0.91" (23mm) of rain.

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 129.5 rainfall days, and 16.46" (418mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through May, September through December.

How many days does it snow?

In Bethel, during the entire year, snow falls for 74.8 days and aggregates up to 22.91" (582mm) of snow.

What is the snowiest month?

February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 12.1 days and accumulates 4.96" (126mm) of snow.

What is the month with the lowest UV index?

The months with the lowest UV index are February, March and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from AKST to AKDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from AKDT to AKST.

What month has the most sunshine?

May has the most sunshine of the year in Bethel, with an average of 8.1h of sunshine.

What is the month with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index are May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 3.

What is the least humid month?

June is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 65%.

When it does not snow?

In Bethel, snow does not fall in June through August.

When are the longest days?

With an average of 19h and 0min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.

What is the hottest time of year?

The month of July sees the average highest temperatures, reaching 62.4°F (16.9°C) at the peak and 49.6°F (9.8°C) at the low.

What is the wettest month?

August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 19.7 days and accumulates 2.09" (53mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 5h and 48min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 2.7h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Bethel, AK

Average temperature - Bethel, AK

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (62.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (12.2°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (49.6°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (3.7°F).

Average pressure
Bethel, AK

Average pressure - Bethel, AK

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (29.92"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is December (29.64"Hg).

Average wind speed
Bethel, AK

Average wind speed - Bethel, AK

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (12.7mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (8.5mph).

Average humidity
Bethel, AK

Average humidity - Bethel, AK

The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and March (91%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (65%).

Average rainfall
Bethel, AK

Average rainfall - Bethel, AK

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (2.09").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and April (0.91").

Average rainfall days
Bethel, AK

Average rainfall days - Bethel, AK

The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (19.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is March (4.4 days).

Average snowfall
Bethel, AK

Average snowfall - Bethel, AK

The month with the highest snowfall is February (4.96").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July and August (0").

Average snowfall days
Bethel, AK

Average snowfall days - Bethel, AK

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (12.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July and August (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Bethel, AK

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Bethel, AK

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 19h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 5h and 48min).

The month with the most sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 8h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 2h and 42min).

Average sunshine days
Bethel, AK

Average sunshine days - Bethel, AK

The month with the most sunshine days is March (17.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (8.6 days).

Average UV index
Bethel, AK

Average UV index - Bethel, AK

The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 3).
The months with the lowest UV index are February, March and December (UV index 1).

Average visibility
Bethel, AK

Average visibility - Bethel, AK

The months with the highest visibility are May, June, July, August, September, October and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April and November (5mi).

Bethel, Alaska, USA

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