Sitka weather by month
🎯 Introduction to Sitka Weather by Month
Sitka, Alaska is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, towering trees, and, of course, its distinctive weather patterns. Whether you’re planning a trip, moving to the area, or simply curious about how the climate shifts from January to December, understanding Sitka weather by month is essential. This guide breaks down each month’s typical temperatures, precipitation, and sunshine, providing you with a clear, concise reference for life or travel in this beautiful coastal town.
📅 Sitka Weather by Month
Below is a month‑by‑month snapshot of what you can expect in terms of temperature, rainfall, and daily sunshine.
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Avg. Rainy Days | Avg. Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27 | 18 | 3.9 | 12 | 2 |
| February | 28 | 18 | 3.8 | 12 | 3 |
| March | 31 | 18 | 3.7 | 13 | 4 |
| April | 35 | 20 | 3.2 | 10 | 7 |
| May | 42 | 26 | 2.7 | 9 | 10 |
| June | 49 | 32 | 2.5 | 9 | 12 |
| July | 54 | 35 | 2.6 | 8 | 13 |
| August | 54 | 34 | 3.0 | 9 | 13 |
| September | 50 | 31 | 3.1 | 10 | 12 |
| October | 40 | 24 | 3.9 | 10 | 9 |
| November | 33 | 20 | 4.1 | 12 | 5 |
| December | 29 | 18 | 4.0 | 12 | 3 |
All figures are averages based on historical data over the past 30‑year period. Slight variations may occur each year.
❄️ Winter (January – February)
- Cold, but mild: With highs around 27–28°F, winter in Sitka remains relatively moderate compared to inland Alaska.
- High precipitation: Expect about 3.8–3.9 inches of rain; snow is less frequent but can accumulate quickly.
- Limited sunshine: Only 2–3 hours of daylight on average; perfect for cozy indoor activities.
🌧️ Early Spring (March – April)
- Gradual warming: Highs climb to the low 30s (31–35°F) while lows rise to roughly 18–20°F.
- Rain continues: The weather stays wet, with about 3.7–3.2 inches of precipitation.
- Longer days: Sunshine increases to about 4–7 hours.
🌸 Mid‑Spring/early Summer (May – June)
- Mild temperatures: Highs reaching mid-40s to mid-50s; lows around 26–32°F.
- Lowest rainfall: This is Sitka’s driest period, with just 2.5–2.7 inches of rain.
- Extended daylight: Summer provides 10–12 hours of sunshine, ideal for exploring.
☀️ Summer (July – August)
- Warmest time: Highs consistently around 54°F; lows hover at 34–35°F.
- Light precipitation: Around 2.6–3.0 inches of rain but rarely intense.
- Peak sunshine: 12–13 hours of daylight; the golden hour for photography and wildlife spotting.
🍂 Fall (September – October)
- Cooling trend: Highs dip to 49–40°F, while lows drop to 28–24°F.
- Precipitation rises: Back to about 3–4 inches of rain; chance of brief snow in late October.
- Daylight declines: Sunshine falls to 9–12 hours; longer evenings encourage evenings by the water.
🌨️ Late Fall/Pre‑Winter (November – December)
- Coldest times: Highs around 29–33°F, lows reaching 18–20°F.
- Heavy rainfall: Approximately 4 inches of precipitation; snow likely in December.
- Shortest days: Only 3–5 hours of sunlight; perfect for reflective winter walks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it possible to experience snow in Sitka during summer months?
A1: Extremely unlikely. Snow is usually confined to late December through March.
Q2: What’s the best time to visit Sitka for outdoor activities?
A2: Late June to July offers mild weather, minimal rain, and plentiful sunshine.
Q3: How does Sitka’s winter weather compare to Anchorage?
A3: Sitka’s winter temperatures are milder but more rainy, while Anchorage tends to be colder but drier.
Q4: Can I drive to Sitka in winter?
A4: Yes, Route 1 remains open year‑round, though caution during rain or snow is advised.
Q5: What’s the average monthly wind speed in Sitka?
A5: Roughly 10–15 mph throughout the year, with higher winds during winter storms.
📚 Resources for Further Reading
- Alaska’s National Weather Service – Detailed monthly climate normals
- Sitka Historical Society – Seasonal climate archives
- Alaska Tourism Board – Sitka Travel Guide – Seasonal activities and events
- NOAA Climate Data Online – Interactive weather charts
- Weather.com – Sitka, AK Weather Forecast – Updated daily conditions
Use these references to dig deeper into Sitka’s weather nuances, plan your trips around the seasons, and stay informed about local climate trends. Enjoy exploring this extraordinary Alaskan gem!
