The climate of Haines
Haines,
Alaska in the United States has a Subarctic, subalpine climate. This is indicated by its Köppen climate classification which is Dsc, showing a combination of freezing winters and mild summers. Nestled along the northern part of the Alaska panhandle, surrounded by mountains and near the ocean, Haines presents distinct seasonal variations.
Throughout the year, temperatures fluctuate significantly, with monthly average lows dropping to 12.4°F (-10.9°C) in
February and peaking at 56.5°F (13.6°C) in
July. Average high temperatures from 21.6°F (-5.8°C) in
January to 56.5°F (13.6°C) in July all point to a chilly general climate. Relative humidity levels remain fairly steady from year round, hovering primarily between 78% and 92%. Annual rainfall totals vary, with a highest precipitation of 5.87" (149mm) in
November and the least at 2.2" (56mm), in
June. The number of rainy days span from a minimum of 9.3 in February to maximum 20.2 in
October.
Environmental factors such as visibility, UV index and wind strength are reasonably consistent across the year. Notable observations include the highest recorded wind gusts of 11.2mph (18km/h) in
December and increased cloud coverage during winter months. Snowfall is frequent, with a peak in December at 21.06" (535mm).
The best time to visit Haines
Given
Haines’ overall climate tendencies, the most enjoyable period to visit would arguably be
July. Temperatures are at their warmest, with average highs reaching 56.5°F (13.6°C) and lows at 43.7°F (6.5°C). Relative humidity drops to its yearly low at 80% during this period. Moreover, July sees the most sunshine hours with around 18.5 hours of daylight and 10.2 hours of actual sunshine, as well as the highest UV index, at 4, implying favorable weather for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Haines
Conversely, travel to
Haines can be challenging during the winter months, particularly
December. This period delivers low temperatures from 21.9°F (-5.6°C) to 14.4°F (-9.8°C) and high snowfall at 21.06" (535mm), making for potentially hazardous conditions. Furthermore, December presents the lowest daylight hours, 6.3 on average, and a high relative humidity of 90%, which could all be restrictive for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Haines
Spring in
Haines, from
March to
May, is marked by slowly warming temperatures ranging from highs of 27.9°F (-2.3°C) to 46.2°F (7.9°C) and lows between 14°F (-10°C) and 33.8°F (1°C). Rainfall declines gradually over the season, averaging 2.95" (75mm) in
April. Despite this, snowfall remains a factor in the earlier part of spring, with averages falling from 14.21" (361mm) in March to just 0.08" (2mm) by May. Days lengthen significantly, providing between 11.9 and 17 hours of daylight by the season's end.
Summer weather in Haines
During the summer months from
June to
August, temperatures in
Haines rise significantly, peaking at average highs of 56.5°F (13.6°C) and lows of 44.1°F (6.7°C). Rainfall increases slightly from 2.2" (56mm) in June to 4.13" (105mm) by August. However, there is zero snowfall during this period. Daylight hours are longest in this season, reaching up to 18.5 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Haines
Autumn sees a change in
Haines. Temperatures drop from highs of 55°F (12.8°C) to 38.1°F (3.4°C), and lows between 44.1°F (6.7°C) and 31.8°F (-0.1°C) from
September to
November. Rainfall reaches its highest levels at 5.87" (149mm) in November, and snow begins to accumulate, rising to 8.23" (209mm) by month-end. Daylight hours decrease rapidly, from 12.8 in September to just 7.7 in November.
Winter weather in Haines
In winter, temperatures in
Haines descend to their coldest levels, reaching average lows of 14.4°F (-9.8°C) in
December and
January and highs between 21.6°F (-5.8°C) and 27°F (-2.8°C). Rainfall lessens, registering 5.47" (139mm) in December, but snowfall is considerable, peaking at 21.06" (535mm) in December. Daylight hours are shortest in winter, with merely 6.3 hours in December.
Weather in January
As the New Year begins,
Haines,
Alaska steps into the coldest period of the year with lower daily highs recording a frigid 21.6°F (-5.8°C) and minimum temperatures plunging to an average of 13.5°F (-10.3°C). The city experiences its highest snowfall rate this month, making it a winter wonderland for those who appreciate a frosted landscape.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Compared to
January's icy temperatures,
February sees a slight rise in the mercury, albeit the climate still remains firmly in winter's grip. February's skies, filled mostly with clouds, tend to shed less snow than January, signaling the beginning of the gradual transition into spring.
Weather in February »Weather in March
While temperatures continue their steady climb, the characteristic chill of Alaskan winter dissipates somewhat in
March. This month boasts more daylight hours, a telling sign that spring is on its way. Albeit warmer,
Haines still sees 14.21" (361mm) of snowfall, making it a captivating sight for winter enthusiasts.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The advent of
April brings noticeable changes to
Haines, signaling the arrival of spring after long, chilly winter months. While snowfall drops significantly to 6.46" (164mm), rainfall begins to make a comeback, morphing the snow-covered cityscape into a fragrant, spring-filled spectacle.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May sees the transformation of
Haines into a warm, spring paradise. Minimal snowfall and rising temperatures set a promising stage for summer's arrival. Residents exchange their winter gear for spring clothing as they get ready to enjoy longer daylight hours and more abundant sunshine.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June, the gateway to summer, sees
Haines basking in the longest daylight hours of the year. Consistent rainfall now replaces snow, characterizing the transitory nature of early summer. Anticipate the warmth of the sun, for it's in June that the average high temperature reaches a comfortable 51.4°F (10.8°C).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The splendor of full summer unveils itself in
July, the warmest month in
Haines with average highs soaring to 56.5°F (13.6°C). The town, now completely devoid of snow, embraces the pleasant warmth and frequents rainfall, creating a splendid summer spectacle.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August ushers in the closing stage of summer, with temperature highs slightly dipping from
July's peak.
Alaska's spectacular landscapes offer plenty of sunlight to enjoy, with abundant rainfall keeping everything lush and green.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
August's warmth begins to ebb,
September marks the beginning of autumn's entrance. Weather patterns turn unpredictable with cooler temperatures and a blend of sun and showers. The first hint of
Alaska's stunning fall foliage starts to peek through adding a brilliant spectrum of colors to the landscape.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October's arrival in
Haines reveals a clear shift towards cooler autumn weather. Leaves changing to vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold become the highlight of the town's scenery. The city starts to prepare for the incoming winter season as nights grow longer and days shorter.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The transition to the grips of winter becomes more evident in
Haines as
November progresses. The early onset of nighttime commences, while the landscapes gradually turn from vibrant fall colors to frosty whites. With Haines receiving 8.23" (209mm) of snow, winter activities start to make a comeback.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the return of full-fledged winter, with the shortest daylight hours and a significant drop in temperatures.
Haines becomes a white paradise with an impressive 21.06" (535mm) of snowfall, providing a plethora of opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.
Weather in December »