The climate of Wrangell
Nestled in
Alaska, USA,
Wrangell identifies with the humid continental climate as per the Köppen climate classification, Dfb being the specific category. This classification reveals that the city experiences a warm summer, without a dry season, typical of the continental areas.
Over the course of the year, average temperatures fluctuate from a soft chill of 25.9°F (-3.4°C) in
February to a mildly warm peak of 59.7°F (15.4°C) in
July. Interestingly, a significant variation can be observed in the monthly relative humidity which ranges from 81% to 86%, reflecting a consistently high level of moisture in the air throughout the year.
Witnessing rainfall in all months, Wrangell experiences the highest rainfall of 6.3" (160mm) in
October, while
May offers a relatively less wet period with rainfall measuring 2.01" (51mm). However, snowfall scenes are largely confined to the colder months, from
November to
April, witnessing a peak of 13.46" (342mm) in
March, and completely absent in the warmer, summer months.
The best time to visit Wrangell
Wrangell appeals most to travelers in the months of
June and
July, when the city is basking in the warmth of its summer season. While the temperatures range from a balmy 55.4°F (13°C) to a high 59.7°F (15.4°C), the rainfall measures at 3.19" (81mm), making these months agreeably dry compared to other months. Plus, generous daylight hours hovering around 17 hours mark these months as idyllic for outdoor activities and better exploration of the cityscape.
The worst time to visit Wrangell
Unless one is a fan of colder climates, the months from
November to
February could pose a challenge. With temperatures swooping low from 27.5°F (-2.5°C) to a 32.7°F (0.4°C) in
January, and snowfall ranging from 6.38" (162mm) in November to a peak of 12.95" (329mm) in February, outdoor movement might be restricted. Relative humidity spans between 82% to 83%, adding the cold, damp feel to the atmosphere, potentially making it less appealing for visitors.
Spring weather in Wrangell
Spring ushers in a moderate change in weather with temperatures mounting up from a cool 36.9°F (2.7°C) in
March to a comfortable 51.6°F (10.9°C) in
May. A considerable decrease in snowfall is observed, dropping sharply from 13.46" (342mm) in March, to virtually negligible in May. Rainfall trails a similar trend, ticking at 3.58" (91mm) in March, leading upto 2.01" (51mm) in May, marking the driest month in
Wrangell.
Summer weather in Wrangell
From
June to
August, summer brings the year's highest temperatures, fluctuating between 55.4°F (13°C) and 59.7°F (15.4°C). Rainfall regains strength though, climbing from 3.19" (81mm) in June to a higher 5.55" (141mm) in August. Sea temperatures warm up from 50.5°F (10.3°C) in June to 54.8°F (12.7°C) in August, potentially opening up opportunities for adventurous water sports.
Autumn weather in Wrangell
Entering
September, temperatures start to recede, marking the onset of fall, with temperatures observed between 54.3°F (12.4°C) and 46°F (7.8°C) in
November. Rainfall ascends noticeably, reaching 6.3" (160mm) in
October and settling at 5.83" (148mm) in November. Yet, the days remain fairly bright with sunshine hours lingering between 6.7 hours in September to 3.4 hours in November.
Winter weather in Wrangell
Winter is characterized by icy temperatures, dropping down low from 37°F (2.8°C) in
December to 27.5°F (-2.5°C) in
February, making it the coldest month of the year. Snowfall, however, hits its stride, starting from 6.38" (162mm) in
November, peaking at 12.95" (329mm) in February. In addition, December to February display reduced sunshine hours from 3.4 hours to 3.8 hours, along with average daylight hours dwindling between 7 hours in December and reaching a low of 7 hours in February. Although it gets very cold and snow-laden, the scenic beauty of
Wrangell during winters can leave travelers awestruck.
Weather in January
Winter is in full swing in
January, making
Wrangell,
Alaska, a winter wonderland. The mercury dips as low as 27.3°F (-2.6°C) and rises only to a chilly 32.7°F (0.4°C), with an impressive 11.73" (298mm) of snowfall recorded.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
February arrives,
Wrangell continues to experience harsh winter conditions. There is a slight increase in the snowfall, recorded at 12.95" (329mm). It is a month for warm coats and hot cocoa. Although the temperatures are bitter, the days are getting longer, making February a prime time for winter snow sports.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Following the freezing months of
January and
February,
March brings a gradual rise in temperatures. It records a slight increase in average high and low temperatures of 36.9°F (2.7°C) and 27.9°F (-2.3°C) respectively. Early signs of spring become more apparent toward the end of the month, though winter clothing remains essential.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April, spring is imminent in
Wrangell,
Alaska, reflected by a notable increase in the temperature, soaring as high as 43.3°F (6.3°C). The days are becoming significantly longer, ringing in the season of rejuvenation. The snow gives way to rain, extending snowmelt and feeding the budding greenery.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May marks the beginning of the warmer period in
Wrangell, with temperatures reaching a welcome 51.6°F (10.9°C). The last vestiges of snow disappear as the landscape is engulfed by springtime bloom. The rapidly increasing daylight hours make for longer sightseeing times.
Weather in May » Weather in June
With the arrival of
June, summer is well underway in
Wrangell. The mild temperatures, peaking at 55.4°F (13°C), mark a significant departure from the chilly winter months. The lengthy days make June ideal for outdoor activities and adventure sports.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Wrangell experiences its warmest temperatures, with maximum readings reaching 59.7°F (15.4°C). It is the time for extended, sun-soaked days and mild, pleasant nights. The outdoor adventure season reaches its zenith. It is an excellent time to explore the stunning Alaskan landscapes.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August registers the highest sea temperature of 54.8°F (12.7°C), making it a prime month for beach activities. However, temperatures on land start to pull back from their peak in
July. The retreat of summer is signaled by shorter days and rainier weather.
Weather in August » Weather in September
By
September,
Wrangell starts to witness early signs of the forthcoming fall. The temperature follows a downward trend, with a drop to 54.3°F (12.4°C) seen. The verdant landscape begins to give way to brilliant hues of red and gold.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
With 6.3" (160mm),
October emerges as the month with the highest rainfall. The leaves turn, covering
Wrangell in a carpet of brilliant fall colors. As October proceeds, so does the transition from autumn to winter. Lower temperatures and increased rainfall make it necessary to carry warm clothing and rain gear.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November sees the return of solid freeze in
Wrangell, with the introduction of a significant 6.38" (162mm) of snowfall. The city braces for the approaching winter, with temperatures plummeting. The vibrant colors of fall fade into the stark whites of winter.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Wrangell delves further into winter in
December, with an average snowfall of 10.67" (271mm). The winter solstice near the end of the month offers the shortest day length of the year. As the year draws to a close, the city lights up in festivities, providing a warm contrast against the cold weather.
Weather in December »