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Contents
- The climate of Kotzebue
- The best time to visit Kotzebue
- The worst time to visit Kotzebue
- Spring weather in Kotzebue
- Summer weather in Kotzebue
- Autumn weather in Kotzebue
- Winter weather in Kotzebue
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
A winter day in Kotzebue Village, Alaska - the sunlit buildings and snow-peaked mountains afar
The climate of Kotzebue
Resting on the northwestern coastline of the Alaskan Peninsula, Kotzebue maintains a subarctic climate. Its classification, according to the Köppen climate model, is Dfc, designating a substantial winter period, devoid of a dry season, and cool, fleeting summers. Oscillation among weather variables marks the passage of the year, contributing to the climate's significant contrast.
Tracking temperature fluctuation provides a vivid insight into Kotzebue's seasonal transition. Summer months, from June to August, bring relative warmth with high temperatures oscillating from 47.3°F (8.5°C) to 54.9°F (12.7°C) while low temperatures roam form a comfortable 40.6°F (4.8°C) to 48.4°F (9.1°C). However, the winter months, December through February, demonstrate the stark contrast with temperatures plunging to a low of -1.1°F (-18.4°C) and rarely exceeding 9.5°F (-12.5°C).
Moisture parameters, humidity and rainfall, also exhibit a unique pattern. Average relative humidity is consistent throughout the year, ranging from an annual low of 74% in June to a peak of 90% in February and March. Rainfall witnesses the most variation in late summer, with August showing 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation on 15.2 days, the maximum of the year. Winters contrast this with only 0.79" (20mm) of rain falling in December.
Discussing sunshine and daylight hours, the city experiences prolonged darkness during winter with only 2.2 hours of daylight and 1 hour of sunshine in December. Summer compensates for this lack of light, offering an abundance of sunlight. June provides the most, with an impressive 24 hours of daylight and 6 hours of sunshine.
The wind displays a consistent pattern, with mean speeds ranging from 7.9mph (12.7km/h) to 11.9mph (19.2km/h) over the months. Moreover, gusts, quite common in this region, can reach up to 19.8mph (31.9km/h) in October.
Tracking temperature fluctuation provides a vivid insight into Kotzebue's seasonal transition. Summer months, from June to August, bring relative warmth with high temperatures oscillating from 47.3°F (8.5°C) to 54.9°F (12.7°C) while low temperatures roam form a comfortable 40.6°F (4.8°C) to 48.4°F (9.1°C). However, the winter months, December through February, demonstrate the stark contrast with temperatures plunging to a low of -1.1°F (-18.4°C) and rarely exceeding 9.5°F (-12.5°C).
Moisture parameters, humidity and rainfall, also exhibit a unique pattern. Average relative humidity is consistent throughout the year, ranging from an annual low of 74% in June to a peak of 90% in February and March. Rainfall witnesses the most variation in late summer, with August showing 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation on 15.2 days, the maximum of the year. Winters contrast this with only 0.79" (20mm) of rain falling in December.
Discussing sunshine and daylight hours, the city experiences prolonged darkness during winter with only 2.2 hours of daylight and 1 hour of sunshine in December. Summer compensates for this lack of light, offering an abundance of sunlight. June provides the most, with an impressive 24 hours of daylight and 6 hours of sunshine.
The wind displays a consistent pattern, with mean speeds ranging from 7.9mph (12.7km/h) to 11.9mph (19.2km/h) over the months. Moreover, gusts, quite common in this region, can reach up to 19.8mph (31.9km/h) in October.
The best time to visit Kotzebue
Taking into account the weather variables, the best time to plan a trip to Kotzebue would be from June to August. During this period, temperatures typically range from a comfortable 40.6°F (4.8°C) to 54.9°F (12.7°C), allowing visitors to engage in a variety of outdoor activities. The city also receives the most daylight during these months, facilitating exploration and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Kotzebue
Contrarily, the winter months, particularly from December to February, may not be the optimal choice for travel due to the extreme cold. Temperatures dip to below freezing, and sunlight hours dwindle to a bare minimum, potentially hampering outdoor activities and exploration.
Spring weather in Kotzebue
Springtime in Kotzebue lasts from March to May. During this time of transition, temperatures gradually increase from an average high of 11.1°F (-11.6°C) in March to 37.9°F (3.3°C) in May, and the city sees the least amount of rainfall. Furthermore, the days gradually lengthen leading up to summer, allowing more daylight for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Kotzebue
The pinnacle of warmth, the summer months of June through August, display daily high temperatures fluctuating from 47.3°F (8.5°C) to 54.9°F (12.7°C). It's the best time to experience the city's robust culture and scenery. The period also has the most rainfall, so visitors need to prepare for occasional showers.
Autumn weather in Kotzebue
Autumn brings a significant gradual decline in temperature, moving from 46.6°F (8.1°C) in September to a mere 9.5°F (-12.5°C) by November. Rainfall levels fluctuate across these months with 1.22" (31mm) in September, followed by a decline in October and November. Nevertheless, the city retains a decent amount of daylight until late October.
Winter weather in Kotzebue
Winter months reveal the stark harshness of Kotzebue's subarctic climate. From December to February, temperatures plummet and daylight dwindles. Average lows range from 3°F (-16.1°C) to -1.1°F (-18.4°C), and the city experiences only 2.2 hours of daylight in December. Snowfall is also seen during this period with February recording the maximum of 2.8" (71mm). It's indeed a severe season but filled with its own stark beauty.
Weather in January
In the brisk opening month of the year at Kotzebue, Alaska, it is common to encounter snowfall, with 10.3 days of snow on average resulting in a total of 2.52" (64mm). These frigid conditions pose a stark contrast to the warmest month of the year later on. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Moving into February, the temperatures remain quite chilly in Kotzebue, although days with snowfall increase to 12.2, and a snowfall total inches to 3.27" (83mm). Also, visibility remains limited due to lingering frost and controlled snowstorms. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As the snow begins to dissipate in March, with a decline to 11.7 days of snow and the total falling to 3.98" (101mm), the frigid temperatures of Kotzebue persist. As the winter season draws to a close, a marked increase in daylight hours becomes evident, lending more time for residents and visitors to engage in various outdoor activities. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a noticeable change to the Kotzebue weather. It witnesses a steep decline in snowfall days to 11, and the total accumulation lowers to 2.44" (62mm). The daylight hours increase significantly, a harbinger of the warmer months ahead. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As May greets Kotzebue, the decline of snowfall becomes quite evident. The days with snowfall slide to 5.8, and the total accumulation depletes to 0.98" (25mm). The landscape transforms into a lush green spectacle, shedding its frosty veil as spring takes hold. Weather in May »
Weather in June
In June, Kotzebue enters a phase of weather superiority devoid of snowfall. The once common snowfall drops to virtually 0" (0mm), signalling the onset of summer. The weather is welcoming, encouraging a vibrant array of outdoor activities. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July brings the peak of summer to Kotzebue, boasting the highest temperature of the year at 54.9°F (12.7°C) and non-existent snowfall. The dramatic shift in temperature transforms the landscape, inviting the community outdoors to enjoy the warmth. Weather in July »
Weather in August
With near-identical high temperatures as July, August in Kotzebue showcases summer in full swing while the city also experiences the highest average rainfall at 1.85" (47mm). The occasional drizzle amidst warm temperatures brings a welcome and refreshing change. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September signals the beginning of Kotzebue's weather shift, with temperatures dropping and snowfall reappearing at 0.35" (9mm). The abrupt plunge intimates the retreat of summer and the impending arrival of winter. The landscape begins its transformation from lush greenery to a barren winter wonderland. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Kotzebue ushers in a stark weather change with a rise in both snowfall days and total accumulation to 9.3 days and 2.44" (62mm) respectively. The arrival of snow signifies a transition to the colder half of the year. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Come November, winter begins to reign supreme once again in Kotzebue, as the snowfall days rise to 10.9 along with the total accumulation increasing to 2.68" (68mm). The decrease in temperature lures back the frost, transforming the landscape into a winter spectacle once more. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December caps the year in Kotzebue with the return of maximum snowfall days at 12.6 and an accumulation total of 2.8" (71mm). Together with considerably shorter periods of daylight and a corresponding decrease in temperature, it endorses the full arrival of a long-lasting winter season. Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 3, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month?
January, noted for its average high-temperature of 6.3°F (-14.3°C) and an average low-temperature of -1.1°F (-18.4°C), is considered the coldest month.
How much does it rain?
In Kotzebue, during the entire year, the rain falls for 83.3 days and collects up to 11.85" (301mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow in Kotzebue?
January through May, September through December are months with snowfall.
How much does it snow?
Throughout the year, in Kotzebue, there are 86.9 snowfall days, and 21.46" (545mm) of snow is accumulated.
What are the most humid months?
The months with the highest humidity are February and March, with an average relative humidity of 90%.
When is the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are February, April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
When does it snow the most?
March is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 11.7 days and accumulates 3.98" (101mm) of snow.
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.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days in Kotzebue is May, with an average of 20h and 0min of daylight.
When is 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?
With an average relative humidity of 74%, June is the least humid month.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is June, when the rain falls for 7.7 days and typically collects 0.47" (12mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow?
In Kotzebue, snow does not fall in June through August.
What is the month with the shortest days?
The month with the shortest days is June, with an average of 0h and 48min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Kotzebue?
June has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 0.6h of sunshine.
What is the hottest time of year?
July, on average, is the warmest month, registering a high temperature of 54.9°F (12.7°C) and a low of 48°F (8.9°C).
What is the rainiest month?
August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.2 days and accumulates 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation.
What month is the ocean warmest?
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 54.1°F (12.3°C).
What month has the most sunshine?
August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.8h of sunshine.
When is the ocean coldest?
With an average ocean temperature of 29.3°F (-1.5°C), December is the month with the coldest seawater in Kotzebue.
Average temperature
Kotzebue, AK
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (54.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (6.3°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (48.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-1.1°F).
Average pressure
Kotzebue, AK
- Average pressure in January:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in March:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.9"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.86"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.87"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.81"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.77"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.77"Hg - Average pressure in November:
29.82"Hg - Average pressure in December:
29.82"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is March (29.96"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are September and October (29.77"Hg).
Average wind speed
Kotzebue, AK
- Average wind speed in January:
11.2mph - Average wind speed in February:
11.7mph - Average wind speed in March:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in April:
9.1mph - Average wind speed in May:
7.9mph - Average wind speed in June:
8.4mph
- Average wind speed in July:
9mph - Average wind speed in August:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in September:
11.2mph - Average wind speed in October:
13.3mph - Average wind speed in November:
11.9mph - Average wind speed in December:
11.2mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is October (13.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is May (7.9mph).
Average humidity
Kotzebue, AK
The months with the highest relative humidity are February and March (90%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (74%).
Average rainfall
Kotzebue, AK
- Average rainfall in January:
0.55" - Average rainfall in February:
1.14" - Average rainfall in March:
0.91" - Average rainfall in April:
0.63" - Average rainfall in May:
0.55" - Average rainfall in June:
0.47"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.65" - Average rainfall in August:
1.85" - Average rainfall in September:
1.22" - Average rainfall in October:
1.18" - Average rainfall in November:
0.91" - Average rainfall in December:
0.79"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (1.85").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (0.47").
Average rainfall days
Kotzebue, AK
- Average rainfall days in January:
2.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
3.2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
5.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
7.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (15.2 days).
The months with the least rainy days are January and December (2.3 days).
Average snowfall
Kotzebue, AK
- Average snowfall in January:
2.52" - Average snowfall in February:
3.27" - Average snowfall in March:
3.98" - Average snowfall in April:
2.44" - Average snowfall in May:
0.98" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is March (3.98").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July and August (0").
Average snowfall days
Kotzebue, AK
- Average snowfall days in January:
10.3 days - Average snowfall days in February:
12.2 days - Average snowfall days in March:
11.7 days - Average snowfall days in April:
11 days - Average snowfall days in May:
5.8 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.3 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in September:
2.7 days - Average snowfall days in October:
9.3 days - Average snowfall days in November:
10.9 days - Average snowfall days in December:
12.6 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (12.6 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is July (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Kotzebue, AK
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (54.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is December (29.4°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kotzebue, AK
- Average daylight in January:
4h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
8h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
15h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
20h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
0h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
17h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
5h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
2h and 1min
The month with the longest days is May (Average daylight: 20h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 0h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
0h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
2h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
1h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 0h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
Kotzebue, AK
- Average sunshine days in January:
19.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
17.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.1 days - Average sunshine days in May:
17.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
20.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13 days - Average sunshine days in September:
16.2 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in December:
16.4 days
The month with the most sunshine days is June (20.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (13 days).
Average UV index
Kotzebue, 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, April, November and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Kotzebue, AK
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 63).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 39).
Average visibility
Kotzebue, AK
The months with the highest visibility are May, June, July, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April and December (5mi).
Kotzebue, Alaska, USA
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