September weather forecast
Antarctica

September in Antarctica signifies the transition from the brutal winter season to the beginning of spring. Although still exceedingly cold, there is a slight uptick in temperatures compared to the preceding winter months. Coastal areas typically experience temperatures between -25°C (-13°F) and -20°C (-4°F), while the interior of the continent can experience temperatures as low as -70°C (-94°F).

At the McMurdo Station and Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, temperatures remain extremely low, averaging -25°C (-13°F) and -70°C (-94°F), respectively.

In September, the sea ice reaches its maximum extent, making the continent inaccessible via conventional sea travel. As a result, tourist activities are practically non-existent due to the challenging weather conditions.

Regarding wildlife, emperor penguins are the main attraction during this month. The males have typically finished their incubation period, and the chicks have hatched. These flightless birds are now starting to prepare their young for the harsh conditions and limited food supply of the upcoming summer.

Compared to August, September is slightly warmer and sees the return of the sun above the horizon, signaling the end of the Polar Night. Looking ahead to October, temperatures will continue to rise slowly, and daylight hours will increase as Antarctica moves further into the spring season.

---

• Artigas Base - September »
  September 2024, at 02:00, Daylight Saving Time starts in Artigas Base and the time zone changes from NZST to NZDT. On the first day of September sunrise is at 22:49 and sunset at 09:01 NZST.
• McMurdo - September »
  September 2024, at 02:00, Daylight Saving Time starts in McMurdo, and the time zone changes from NZST to NZDT. In McMurdo, Antarctica, during September, the rain falls for 3 days and regularly aggregates up to 12mm (0.47") of precipitation.
• Snow Hill Island - September »
  When does Daylight Saving Time start in September in Snow Hill Island? The transition from August to September in Snow Hill Island sees an average high-temperature of an extremely cold -13°C (8.6°F), indicating a minor variance from the prior month.