Climate and monthly weather forecast
Ketchikan, AK

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Beautiful and colorful houses along the waterfront boardwalk on Creek Street in Ketchikan, Alaska
Beautiful and colorful houses along the waterfront boardwalk on Creek Street in Ketchikan, Alaska

The climate of Ketchikan

Situated in the southeastern "Panhandle" region of Alaska, USA, Ketchikan experiences a Marine West Coast climate, formally identified as Cfb under the Köppen climate classification system. This type of climate is typified by a lack of extreme temperatures and a significant amount of rainfall over the course of the year.

Throughout the year, Ketchikan's weather is influenced by a wide array of climatological parameters. Temperature fluctuates modestly, ranging from an average low of 30.6°F (-0.8°C) in February to an average high of 60.8°F (16°C) from July to August. The sea temperatures, likewise, stay relatively cool all year, varying from 42.5°F (5.8°C) in March to a high of 55.9°F (13.3°C) in August.

Rainfall is a predominant condition in Ketchikan's weather, with rainy days ranging from a minimum of 14.2 in February to a maximum of 21.4 in November. The city records the highest rainfall in December with 8.7" (221mm), while the driest period is usually in May, recording an average of 3.46" (88mm).

Further, with snowfall ranging from zero inches between May and October to a peak of 13.11" (333mm) in February, Ketchikan experiences a visible shift in its weather conditions. Additionally, the city highlights varying wind speeds that range from a minimum average of 5.3mph (8.5km/h) to a maximum average of 8.7mph (14km/h).

The best time to visit Ketchikan

The most pleasant time to visit Ketchikan typically aligns with the summer months, particularly from June through August. During this period, visitors can enjoy the warmest average temperatures, ranging from 53.4°F (11.9°C) to 60.8°F (16°C), along with the year's highest sea temperatures, which fall between 53°F (11.7°C) and 55.9°F (13.3°C). The summer also witnesses increased daylight hours, reaching up to 17.4 hours in June. Despite higher rainfall compared to spring, with averages between 4.33" (110mm) and 7.01" (178mm), the higher temperatures and extended daylight hours provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Ketchikan

It is least recommended to visit Ketchikan during the winter months, specifically from December through February, owing to lower average temperatures ranging from 31.6°F (-0.2°C) to 37°F (2.8°C). During these months, the city also experiences less daylight, with an average of just 7.2 to 9.7 hours per day. The substantial snowfall, especially in February with an average of 13.11" (333mm), and high rainfall averaging between 5.94" (151mm) to 9.69" (246mm), might limit outdoor activities and sightseeing experiences.

Spring weather in Ketchikan

Following the winter chill, Ketchikan embraces spring from March to May, with temperatures climbing steadily from an average low of 32.4°F (0.2°C) in March to an average high of 53.4°F (11.9°C) by May. Rainfall averages decrease from 6.22" (158mm) in March to 3.46" (88mm) in May, marking this as the driest month of the year for the city. Adding to the charm for visitors, the sunshine hours also see a significant uptick, from 4.7 hours in March to 7.2 hours in May.

Summer weather in Ketchikan

As mentioned before, Ketchikan's summer, spanning June through August, is characterized by peak average temperatures, increasing daylight hours, and higher sea temperatures. Despite the possibility of rainfall, the summer gives visitors ample opportunities to engage in outdoor explorations and experience the city’s natural splendor.

Autumn weather in Ketchikan

From September to November, Ketchikan experiences autumn with a gradual drop in temperatures, from an average high of 56.3°F (13.5°C) in September to an average of 35.8°F (2.1°C) by the end of November. The city’s rainfall follows an upward trajectory, peaking at 8.86" (225mm) in November. While daylight hours and sunshine hours decrease throughout the season, autumn's natural display nonetheless adds a special charm to this Alaskan town.

Winter weather in Ketchikan

Winter in Ketchikan, stretching from December through February, is largely characterized by the year's lowest temperatures and shortened daylight hours. Along with higher rainfall and substantial snowfall, these conditions collectively indicate a period which is less inviting for tourism, yet it brings a distinct tranquility and a striking winter beauty to the Alaskan landscape.

Weather in January

In Ketchikan, Alaska, January's weather is marked by a predominance of wet conditions and a chill in the air. Average temperatures range from 31.6°F (-0.2°C) to 36.5°F (2.5°C) this month, noticeably lower than the eminently impending spring months. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In Ketchikan, the weather plummets further in February, with averages spanning from 30.6°F (-0.8°C) minimum to 37°F (2.8°C) maximum. Despite the slight fall in temperature compared to January, the presence of snow increases, accumulating approximately of 13.11" (333mm). Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Ketchikan transitions towards spring in March, a perceptible alteration in weather conditions begins to unfold. The city records temperatures fluctuating from 32.4°F (0.2°C) to 40.3°F (4.6°C). There is substantial reduction in snowfall this month, with a total of 11.81" (300mm), indicating an imminent end to winter. Weather in March »

Weather in April

In April, Ketchikan begins to experience a taste of spring, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Average temperatures remain within 37.2°F (2.9°C) on the cooler side and ascend to 46°F (7.8°C). Interestingly, snowfall sharply decreases to approximately 1.1" (28mm), marking the conclusion of the prominent snow season. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May in Ketchikan is characterized by pleasanter temperatures and the manifestation of spring in its full glory. The range of temperatures expands, from 43.5°F (6.4°C) to 53.4°F (11.9°C), instilling warmth in the air. Traces of snowfall, recorded at 0.08" (2mm), indicate the vanishing remnants of winter. Weather in May »

Weather in June

Ketchikan in June experiences a noticeable transition from spring to summer. With temperatures spanning from 47.3°F (8.5°C) at the lower end of the spectrum to 56.7°F (13.7°C) at the high, the weather is moderately warm. The absence of snowfall signifies the final departure of the winter chill. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is relatively the warmest month in Ketchikan, bringing with it a distinct summer vibe. This month witnesses the highest average temperatures in the year, hovering from 51.4°F (10.8°C) to 60.8°F (16°C). Although rainfall in July slightly increases to 4.33" (110mm), there is a distinct lack of snow. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Ketchikan maintains the summer spirit, with temperatures identical to July, fluctuating between 52°F (11.1°C) and 60.8°F (16°C). Despite rainfall becoming considerably heavier, 7.01" (178mm) compared to July, the warmth persists. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The weather in Ketchikan, during September, undergoes a slow transition towards fall. Average temperatures take a slight dip compared to August, ranging from 48.7°F (9.3°C) to 56.3°F (13.5°C). With the rainfall clocking 6.85" (174mm), the city starts to experience frequent showers. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Ketchikan ushers in the fall season with cooler temperatures, frequent rain, and shorter days. Reading from 42.1°F (5.6°C) at the lower edge to 48.2°F (9°C) upper end, temperatures signify incoming wintry chills. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Ketchikan in November presents a shift towards cold weather. Fluctuating within the lower bracket from 36.1°F (2.3°C) to the 40.8°F (4.9°C) mark, the temperatures suggest the imminent arrival of winter. The city begins to get a dusting of snow accounting for roughly 3.9" (99mm), heralding the upcoming snowy season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

The city of Ketchikan, in December, is entirely in the grip of winter. A sharp drop in temperatures from 35.8°F (2.1°C) to the cold 31.5°F (-0.3°C), coupled with snowfall of about 8.03" (204mm), confirms winter's dominion. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What is the most humid month in Ketchikan?

The most humid month in Ketchikan, Alaska, is January, with an average relative humidity of 88%.

What is the wettest month in Ketchikan?

January is the month with the most rainfall in Ketchikan. Rain falls for 19.2 days and accumulates 9.69" (246mm) of precipitation.

How much does it rain in Ketchikan?

In Ketchikan, Alaska, during the entire year, the rain falls for 221.8 days and collects up to 80" (2032mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Ketchikan?

Months with snowfall in Ketchikan, Alaska, are January through May, November and December.

How many days does it snow in Ketchikan?

In Ketchikan, during the entire year, snow falls for 40.7 days and aggregates up to 48.35" (1228mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Ketchikan?

With an average of 3h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year in Ketchikan.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Ketchikan?

January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index in Ketchikan, Alaska.

What is the snowiest month in Ketchikan?

The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 8 days and typically aggregates up to 13.11" (333mm) of snow.

What is the month with the coldest ocean in Ketchikan?

March is the month with the coldest seawater in Ketchikan, Alaska, with an average ocean temperature of 42.4°F (5.8°C).

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Ketchikan?

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 in Ketchikan?

With an average relative humidity of 82%, May is the least humid month.

What is the driest month in Ketchikan?

The month with the least rainfall is May, when the rain falls for 17.1 days and typically collects 3.46" (88mm) of precipitation.

What month has the most sunshine in Ketchikan?

May has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.2h of sunshine.

When it does not snow in Ketchikan?

June through October are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days in Ketchikan?

With an average of 17h and 24min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.

What time of the year is the hottest in Ketchikan?

July and August mark Ketchikan's peak of temperatures, averaging a high-temperature of 60.8°F (16°C).

What is the month with the highest UV index in Ketchikan?

The months with the highest UV index in Ketchikan, Alaska, are July and August, with an average maximum UV index of 4.

What month is the ocean warmest in Ketchikan?

August is the month with the warmest seawater in Ketchikan, with an average ocean temperature of 55.9°F (13.3°C).

What is the coldest time of year in Ketchikan?

December is the month that records the lowest temperatures in Ketchikan, Alaska, with averages ranging from a high of 35.8°F (2.1°C) to a low of 31.5°F (-0.3°C).

What is the month with the shortest days in Ketchikan?

With an average of 7h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Ketchikan, AK

Average temperature - Ketchikan, AK

The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are July and August (60.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (35.8°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (52°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (30.6°F).

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Average pressure
Ketchikan, AK

Average pressure - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (29.8"Hg).

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Average wind speed
Ketchikan, AK

Average wind speed - Ketchikan, AK

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (8.7mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (5.3mph).

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Average rainfall
Ketchikan, AK

Average rainfall - Ketchikan, AK

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (9.69").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is May (3.46").

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Average rainfall days
Ketchikan, AK

Average rainfall days - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (21.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (14.2 days).

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Average snowfall
Ketchikan, AK

Average snowfall - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the highest snowfall is February (13.11").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August, September and October (0").

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Average snowfall days
Ketchikan, AK

Average snowfall days - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is March (10.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

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Average sea temperature
Ketchikan, AK

Average sea temperature - Ketchikan, AK

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (55.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (42.5°F).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Ketchikan, AK

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 17h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 7h and 12min).

The month with the most sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 7h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 0min).

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Average sunshine days
Ketchikan, AK

Average sunshine days - Ketchikan, AK

The month with the most sunshine days is July (11.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (5.6 days).

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Average UV index
Ketchikan, AK

Average UV index - Ketchikan, AK

The months with the highest UV index are July and August (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 1).

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Average visibility
Ketchikan, AK

Average visibility - Ketchikan, AK

The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, July and August (5mi).

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Ketchikan, Alaska, USA

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