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Contents
- The climate of Valdez
- The best time to visit Valdez
- The worst time to visit Valdez
- Spring weather in Valdez
- Summer weather in Valdez
- Autumn weather in Valdez
- Winter weather in Valdez
- 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
Lake water and grown-in surface vegetation in Valdez Province, Alaska
The climate of Valdez
Valdez, Alaska, USA, is characterized by a Dfc climate under the Köppen climate classification. This represents a subarctic climate with severe winters, cool summers, and no dry season. The coastal position of Valdez on the Prince William Sound in the North Pacific Ocean substantially influences the weather patterns year-round.
Throughout the year, the temperature fluctuates between an average low of 10°F (-12.2°C) in January to an average peak of 53.2°F (11.8°C) in July. Taking a closer look at the weather patterns reveals a consistent increase in temperature from January through July. After reaching its warmest point in July, the temperature gradually decreases towards the end of the year.
Rainfall shows a recurrent pattern, where the months from September to December record the highest quantities, with a peak of 7.44" (189mm) in December. The lowest volume of rainfall happens in June with only 1.93" (49mm). The number of rainfall days follows a similar pattern, with a maximum of 18.7 days in August and a minimum in February, with 6.2 days.
The city of Valdez is also known for its snowfall, which peaks in December and January with 26.73" (679mm) and 19.13" (486mm), respectively. The highest number of snowfall days is registered in December with 17.8 days, while there are nearly no snowfall days recorded from June to August.
Throughout the year, the temperature fluctuates between an average low of 10°F (-12.2°C) in January to an average peak of 53.2°F (11.8°C) in July. Taking a closer look at the weather patterns reveals a consistent increase in temperature from January through July. After reaching its warmest point in July, the temperature gradually decreases towards the end of the year.
Rainfall shows a recurrent pattern, where the months from September to December record the highest quantities, with a peak of 7.44" (189mm) in December. The lowest volume of rainfall happens in June with only 1.93" (49mm). The number of rainfall days follows a similar pattern, with a maximum of 18.7 days in August and a minimum in February, with 6.2 days.
The city of Valdez is also known for its snowfall, which peaks in December and January with 26.73" (679mm) and 19.13" (486mm), respectively. The highest number of snowfall days is registered in December with 17.8 days, while there are nearly no snowfall days recorded from June to August.
The best time to visit Valdez
The perfect time for vacationing in Valdez varies depending on the visitor's preferences. However, considering average temperatures and the least amount of rainfall, June is deemed the best month for outdoor activities. During this month, the average high temperature rises to 47.8°F (8.8°C), and the amount of rainfall is at its lowest of 1.93" (49mm), creating perfect conditions for exploration.
The worst time to visit Valdez
While Valdez is beautiful year-round, the conditions in December might prove challenging for some visitors. Temperatures drop to an average low of 12.4°F (-10.9°C), and the town sees the highest level of snowfall at 26.73" (679mm). Coupled with the shorter daylight hours, averaging at 5.7 hours per day, outdoor activities can be limited.
Spring weather in Valdez
In spring, the weather in Valdez starts to transition from the freezing winter to slightly warmer temperatures. From March through May, average high temperatures increase from 23.4°F (-4.8°C) to 40.6°F (4.8°C). This period sees the ground beginning to thaw, and rainfall slightly increases from 3.94" (100mm) in March to 3.19" (81mm) in May.
Summer weather in Valdez
Summer months in Valdez are cool but pleasant. From June to August, temperatures rise from 47.8°F (8.8°C) to 53.2°F (11.8°C), allowing for more comfortable outdoor activities. This period records the least amount of rain, with a minimum of 1.93" (49mm) in June. July sees the maximum average daylight at 19.2 hours.
Autumn weather in Valdez
The autumn season in Valdez witnesses a significant drop in temperatures. Between September and November, the average high drops from 43.9°F (6.6°C) to 22.1°F (-5.5°C). Rainfall marks a sharp increase, peaking at 7.2" (183mm) in October. The number of daylight hours also reduces significantly from 12.9 hours in September to 7.3 hours in November.
Winter weather in Valdez
Winter months in Valdez are cold, with an average high temperature of 18°F (-7.8°C) in December dropping to 20°F (-6.7°C) in February. Snowfall begins to increase from November, reaching its peak in December at 26.73" (679mm). Winter also marks the shortest daylight period, averaging 5.7 hours in December. Despite the harsh conditions, Valdez's winter landscape offers an exceptional beauty that attracts winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Weather in January
The beginning of the year in Valdez, Alaska, brings a cold and snowy start to the year. January weather displays a notable contrast between high and low temperature fluctuating from 10°F (-12.2°C) to 18°F (-7.8°C). Hardy locals and tourists adapt to the chill, appreciating the thick snow which makes winter sports possible. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Valdez's weather in February mirrors January’s pattern, but with some minor variations. The month experiences more snowfall, handing down around 25.43" (646mm), setting the stage for continued winter activities. With Valentine’s day in the heart of winter, locals and visitors alike enjoy the picturesque snow-capped landscape. Weather in February »
Weather in March
A hint of change lingers in the air as March approaches in Valdez. While temperature lows still hover around the previous month's mark, the high temperature pushes to a slightly more tolerable 23.4°F (-4.8°C). This rise in temperature is a welcome sign of the approaching spring, causing locals and tourists alike to venture outdoors more frequently. Weather in March »
Weather in April
The arrival of April brings a definitive shift towards milder weather, although locals would still deem it cold. With high temperature reaching 31.1°F (-0.5°C), the town bids farewell to the harsh cold of winter. Showers of snow are replaced by showers of rain, signaling the start of Valdez's wet season. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May presents a noticeable shift in Valdez's weather. Becoming more temperate, conditions improve with a steady increase in the high temperature to a comparatively balmy 40.6°F (4.8°C). Flowers start peeping through the melting snow, painting a colorful landscape across the town. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in the arrival of summer in the Alaskan town of Valdez. The warming trend continues, with the mercury reaching as high as 47.8°F (8.8°C) encouraging locals and tourists to explore the outdoor wonders. Longer daylight hours and abundant sunshine transform the town into a vivid spectacle under the clear, blue sky. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Valdez achieves the height of summer in July. As the warmest month of the year, high temperatures peak at 53.2°F (11.8°C). The city experiences its least amount of rainfall, allowing opportunities for a wide range of outdoor activities. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Although August signifies the end of summer, it still maintains some of July’s warmth with temperatures reaching to around 50.5°F (10.3°C). The city starts to transition from the warmth of summer towards the chill of autumn. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September witnesses a complete pivot back to winter weather with a significant drop in the high temperature to 43.9°F (6.6°C). This month experiences the highest amount of rainfall, approximately 6.89" (175mm), making the town a canvas of deep greens and vivid blossoms. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October presents a bare-faced transition into the fall, complete with colder temperatures and increasing rainfall. It marks the arrival of the town's famous autumnal landscape, a spectacle that attracts tourists and locals alike. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Vestiges of autumn fade away as November in Valdez enters full-swing winter. The change in weather from the previous month is part of this Alaskan town's cycle of experiences. The high temperature drops to 22.1°F (-5.5°C), heralding the start of the cold season. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Valdez embraces full-blown winter weather in December. Heavy snowfall of nearly 26.73" (679mm) covers the cityscape, turning it into a winter wonderland. The city then delights in winter sports, with opportunities for snowboarding, skiing and snowshoeing. 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 time of the year is the coldest?
Valdez experiences its average lowest temperatures in January, reaching a peak of 18°F (-7.8°C) and a minimum of 10°F (-12.2°C).
What are the most humid months?
The months with the highest humidity are January and April, with an average relative humidity of 88%.
How many days does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 167.5 rainfall days, and 56.73" (1441mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
Months with snowfall are January through May, September through December.
How much does it snow?
Throughout the year, in Valdez, there are 88.9 snowfall days, and 114.06" (2897mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
What is the month with the coldest ocean?
March is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 38.8°F (3.8°C).
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 least humid month?
The months with the lowest humidity are May through July and November, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
What is the driest month in Valdez?
June is the month with the least rainfall in Valdez. Rain falls for 16.4 days and accumulates 1.93" (49mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow?
June through August are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 19h and 12min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 3, are months with the highest UV index.
What month is the hottest?
Valdez witnesses the warmest weather in July, with temperatures averaging a high of 53.2°F (11.8°C) and a low of 43.2°F (6.2°C).
What month is the ocean warmest?
The month with the warmest seawater is July, with an average ocean temperature of 56.5°F (13.6°C).
What month has the most sunshine?
July has the most sunshine of the year in Valdez, with an average of 9.5h of sunshine.
What is the rainiest month?
December is the month with the most rainfall in Valdez. Rain falls for 10.1 days and accumulates 7.44" (189mm) of precipitation.
What is the snowiest month?
The month with the most snowfall is December, when snow falls for 17.8 days and typically aggregates up to 26.73" (679mm) of snow.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 5h and 42min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 2.8h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Valdez, AK
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (53.2°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (18°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (43.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (10°F).
Average pressure
Valdez, AK
- Average pressure in January:
29.74"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.85"Hg - Average pressure in March:
29.79"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.85"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.92"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.89"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.78"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.74"Hg - Average pressure in November:
29.69"Hg - Average pressure in December:
29.71"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (29.98"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (29.69"Hg).
Average wind speed
Valdez, AK
- Average wind speed in January:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in March:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in April:
4.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
4mph - Average wind speed in June:
3.9mph
- Average wind speed in July:
3.7mph - Average wind speed in August:
3.9mph - Average wind speed in September:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in October:
5.7mph - Average wind speed in November:
8.1mph - Average wind speed in December:
7.2mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is November (8.1mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (3.7mph).
Average humidity
Valdez, AK
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and April (88%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are May, June, July and November (83%).
Average rainfall
Valdez, AK
- Average rainfall in January:
5.28" - Average rainfall in February:
4.25" - Average rainfall in March:
3.94" - Average rainfall in April:
3.03" - Average rainfall in May:
3.19" - Average rainfall in June:
1.93"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.48" - Average rainfall in August:
4.09" - Average rainfall in September:
6.89" - Average rainfall in October:
7.2" - Average rainfall in November:
7.01" - Average rainfall in December:
7.44"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (7.44").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (1.93").
Average rainfall days
Valdez, AK
- Average rainfall days in January:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
6.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
18.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.7 days - Average rainfall days in November:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (18.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (6.2 days).
Average snowfall
Valdez, AK
- Average snowfall in January:
19.13" - Average snowfall in February:
25.43" - Average snowfall in March:
18.27" - Average snowfall in April:
8.74" - Average snowfall in May:
0.47" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is December (26.73").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July and August (0").
Average snowfall days
Valdez, AK
- Average snowfall days in January:
13.7 days - Average snowfall days in February:
15.2 days - Average snowfall days in March:
15.7 days - Average snowfall days in April:
10.5 days - Average snowfall days in May:
1.3 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in October:
2.5 days - Average snowfall days in November:
12.1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
17.8 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (17.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July and August (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Valdez, AK
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is July (56.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (38.9°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Valdez, AK
- Average daylight in January:
6h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
17h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
19h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
18h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
15h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
7h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
5h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 19h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 5h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 9h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 2h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Valdez, AK
- Average sunshine days in January:
12.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10.5 days - Average sunshine days in March:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.5 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
11.1 days - Average sunshine days in September:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
11.2 days - Average sunshine days in November:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in December:
9.7 days
The months with the most sunshine days are January and May (12.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (9.7 days).
Average UV index
Valdez, AK
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 3).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Valdez, AK
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 58).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 50).
Average visibility
Valdez, AK
The month with the highest visibility is June (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February and April (4mi).
Valdez, Alaska, USA
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