Climate and monthly weather forecast
Gustavus, AK

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Brown sand and water on a section of the Gustavus Beach, Alaska, and snow-peaked mountains in the far view
Brown sand and water on a section of the Gustavus Beach, Alaska, and snow-peaked mountains in the far view

The climate of Gustavus

Characterized by freezing winter temperatures and cool summers, Gustavus, Alaska, falls into the Subarctic clime according to the Köppen climate classification. This small city nestled in the northernmost region of the USA experiences an extensive winter period and no dry season. The Dfc predominate weather pattern brings along a broad spectrum of weather conditions throughout the year. Gustavus boasts monthly average temperatures fluctuating between a low of 25.9°F (-3.4°C) in February to a high of 57.2°F (14°C) in July, illustrative of the city’s subarctic climate.

Precipitation in Gustavus takes two main forms: rainfall and snowfall. From January to December, both rainfall and snowfall record varied measurements. Rainfall ranges from a somewhat dry 1.61" (41mm) in May and pours heavily at 4.21" (107mm) in both October and November. Similarly, snowfall figures take a sharp turn from zero inches from May to September with a steep climb to a peak of 11.22" (285mm) by January.

Evidently, variations in Gustavus's atmospheric conditions bring about changes in its relative humidity, visibility, cloud cover, atmospheric pressure, and wind. Cloud cover varies throughout the year with moderate scores of 56% in May to a more cloudy 71% in November. The relative humidity remains reasonably consistent during the year, with a modest range from 85 to 90%. The pressure also stays relatively stable, varying from 29.77" (756mm) in November to 30.03" (763mm) in July.

The best time to visit Gustavus

Balancing between favorable weather conditions and outdoor activity possibilities, the period from June to August could be considered the optimal time to visit Gustavus. During this time, the temperatures hover between 45.1°F (7.3°C) and 57.2°F (14°C) - conditions that promote exploring the breathtaking landscapes Alaska is famous for. Also, the rainfall remains below 3" (76mm), making outdoor adventure and exploration more feasible.

The worst time to visit Gustavus

The early part of the year, from January towards the end of March, may arguably be the least favorable time to visit Gustavus. During these months, the city is under the grip of severe winters with the average low temperature plunging to 25.9°F (-3.4°C) in February and an average high reaching only 32.5°F (0.3°C) in March.

Spring weather in Gustavus

Weather conditions in Gustavus during spring, from March through May, present a gradual increase in temperatures. The average high ascends from 32.5°F (0.3°C) in March to 48°F (8.9°C) in May, while the average low soars from 26.2°F (-3.2°C) to 39.9°F (4.4°C) in the same period. Besides, spring records one of the lowest monthly rainfalls, standing at 1.61" (41mm) in May leading to more clear days.

Summer weather in Gustavus

The summer months in Gustavus, from June to August, welcome relatively warmer conditions with a noticeable dip in rainfall. Average high temperatures peak in July at 57.2°F (14°C), while the lowest average temperatures are in June, around 45.1°F (7.3°C). Summertime also offers extended daylight hours, reaching up to 18.2 hours in June - ideal for outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in Gustavus

Autumn in Gustavus, from September to November, records a consistent decrease in temperatures with a parallel increase in precipitation. The temperatures taper down from 51.1°F (10.6°C) to 35.1°F (1.7°C) as autumn progresses while rainfall amplifies to its annual peak at 4.21" (107mm) in October and November.

Winter weather in Gustavus

The winter season in Gustavus, arriving in December and lasting till February, is characterized by cold, frosty conditions with the local climate living up to its subarctic classification. Temperatures average between 26.2°F (-3.2°C) and 31.1°F (-0.5°C), alongside an increase in snowfall, reaching upto 11.22" (285mm) in January. These conditions lend a chilly weather atmosphere indicative of a northern Alaskan winter.

Weather in January

In January, Gustavus, Alaska experiences chilly weather with frequent snowfall, making it a winter wonderland. There's a decline in temperature this month, marking it as one of the coldest times of the year. The combination of snowfall approximately 11.22" (285mm), along with more than 10 days of snow, renders January as the busiest month in terms of snowfall. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As Gustavus moves into February, the weather conditions continue in a similar pattern to January. The snowfall decreases to 9.69" (246mm), with the number of snowfall days going down slightly. Despite the cold temperatures, the increasing daylight hours are stencilled as the month’s first signs of spring. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Shifting from February to March, Gustavus still keeps its winter charm. The snowfall inches are further reduced to 10.24" (260mm), moving towards an eventual spring season. Despite the remnants of the winter chill, sunlight begins its steady climb promising longer, warmer days. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Coming to April, Gustavus brings a significant change in the weather. The month of April is noteworthy with the absence of snowfall, making it the first snow-free month of the year. The temperature starts escalating, denoting the approach of the warmer season. Weather in April »

Weather in May

As May embarks upon Gustavus, it’s a complete turnaround from the winter season. The temperature scale keeps soaring with May standing in as one of the warmer months. The sky remains relatively clear, which gives way to greater daylight hours. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Gustavus is one of the warmest months of the year, calling out for summer. The proximity to the summer solstice gifts Gustavus with the highest daylight hours of the year. There’s an increase in humidity that results in frequent rainfall, adding to the city’s enchanting beauty. Weather in June »

Weather in July

By July, Gustavus is in full summer swing with temperatures reaching their peak. July witnesses the highest temperatures of the year along with the maximum UV index at 4 units. Humidity increases slightly from the previous month contributing to the overall summery feel. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Heading towards the end of summer, August in Gustavus remains relatively warm. The lengthy daylight hours from July suffer a slight reduction, hinting at the upcoming autumn. August does see a rise in rainfall, which is highest at 3.39" (86mm) for the entire year. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September kicks off a transitional phase in the weather of Gustavus. This month marks the beginning of fall, showcasing a steady fall in temperatures. Rainfall remains in abundance, keeping the city’s lush greenery intact. The daylight hours gradually decrease as the city steps towards the end of the third quarter. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Gustavus presents an array of weather changes, marking the progression into late fall. After several months of absence, snowfall makes a slight reappearance with around 1.02" (26mm). The temperature witnesses a significant plunge, preparing the city for the approaching winter. Weather in October »

Weather in November

As Gustavus steps into November, it greets the late autumn and early winter months. November sees a steep rise in snowfall with around 6.81" (173mm) with around 8 days of snow. The temperature drops further, silently ushering in the cold season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Gustavus wraps up the year with a return to its winter glory. The snowfall hits a high with 11.18" (284mm), occurring on almost 12 days. The city is once again transformed into a snow capped paradise, living up to Alaska's reputation for snow. Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 10, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What are the coldest months?

In Gustavus, January records the average lowest temperatures, peaking at 30.7°F (-0.7°C) and reaching a low of 26.2°F (-3.2°C).

How much does it rain?

In Gustavus, during the entire year, the rain falls for 182.7 days and collects up to 37.4" (950mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through April, October through December.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 10.9 days and typically aggregates up to 11.22" (285mm) of snow.

How much does it snow in Gustavus?

Throughout the year, there are 60.8 snowfall days, and 53.78" (1366mm) of snow is accumulated.

What are the months with the least sunshine?

The months with the least sunshine are January and December, with an average of 2.9h of sunshine.

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 is the driest month?

May is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 15.3 days and accumulates 1.61" (41mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

May through September are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 18h and 12min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine?

June has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.7h of sunshine.

What is the hottest time of year?

Gustavus's July weather reaches an average high of 57.2°F (14°C) and an average low of 49.5°F (9.7°C), making it the warmest month.

What is the month with the highest UV index?

July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 4.

What is the most humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 90%, August is the most humid month.

What is the rainiest month?

The wettest months are October and November, with an average 4.21" (107mm) of rainfall.

What is the least humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 84%, November is the least humid month.

When is the lowest UV index?

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

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 6h and 30min of daylight.

Average temperature
Gustavus, AK

Average temperature - Gustavus, AK

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (57.2°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (30.7°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (49.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (25.9°F).

Average pressure
Gustavus, AK

Average pressure - Gustavus, AK

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (30.03"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (29.77"Hg).

Average wind speed
Gustavus, AK

Average wind speed - Gustavus, AK

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (7mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are June and July (3.7mph).

Average humidity
Gustavus, AK

Average humidity - Gustavus, AK

The month with the highest relative humidity is August (90%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is November (84%).

Average rainfall
Gustavus, AK

Average rainfall - Gustavus, AK

The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are October and November (4.21").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is May (1.61").

Average rainfall days
Gustavus, AK

Average rainfall days - Gustavus, AK

The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (18.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8.2 days).

Average snowfall
Gustavus, AK

Average snowfall - Gustavus, AK

The month with the highest snowfall is January (11.22").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Gustavus, AK

Average snowfall days - Gustavus, AK

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is March (13.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Gustavus, AK

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Gustavus, AK

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 18h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 6h and 30min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 7h and 42min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 2h and 54min).

Average sunshine days
Gustavus, AK

Average sunshine days - Gustavus, AK

The months with the most sunshine days are February and May (12.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (7.7 days).

Average visibility
Gustavus, AK

Average visibility - Gustavus, AK

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December (5mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are July and August (4mi).

Gustavus, Alaska, USA

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