Chugach Census Area Climate

Chugach Census Area, Alaska

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec40.3°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

40.3°F

Annual Precip

139.1"

Annual Snowfall

221.2"

Extreme Heat Days

0

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
12.5"
11.3"
8.9"
8.7"
8.7"
5.7"
7.5"
12.5"
18.1"
16.8"
13.6"
14.9"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring31°45°26.2"Summer52°56°25.7"Fall32°49°48.5"Winter27°29°38.6"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 3% of US counties
Wetter than 95% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 4% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Chugach Census Area Weather

The Wettest Corner of Alaska

Chugach averages 40.3°F annually, which is warm for Alaska but accompanied by an incredible 139.1 inches of precipitation. This creates a unique rainforest-like environment that is far wetter than almost any county in the lower 48.

Alaska's High-Precipitation Leader

At 40.3°F, Chugach is significantly warmer than the 35.9°F state average. However, its 139.1 inches of annual precipitation dwarfs the state average of 54.8 inches, making it a true outlier.

Vastly Different From Anchorage

While neighboring Anchorage receives 31.1 inches of precipitation, Chugach is pelted with 139.1 inches. This moisture translates to a massive 221.2 inches of annual snowfall, more than double Anchorage's 102.9 inches.

Mild Winters and Massive Snow

Winter temperatures average a relatively mild 28.4°F, but the extreme moisture leads to 221.2 inches of snow. Summers are cool and wet, with July temperatures averaging 56.1°F and no days over 90°F.

Mastering Snow and Rain Prep

Residents must be prepared for extreme snow loads, as 221.2 inches can overwhelm standard roofs. Industrial-grade waterproof gear and high-capacity drainage systems are essential for managing the constant 139.1 inches of annual precipitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Chugach Census Area?
The average annual temperature in Chugach Census Area, AK is 40.3°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Chugach Census Area get?
Chugach Census Area receives an average of 139.1 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Chugach Census Area?
Yes, Chugach Census Area receives an average of 221.2 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Chugach Census Area get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Chugach Census Area is 54.5°F. The county experiences an average of 0 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Chugach Census Area?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Chugach Census Area is 28.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 27.1°F.

Track your own weather in Chugach Census Area

Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.

Shop Weather Stations →

Sponsored

Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

Explore more data for Chugach Census Area

TaxCost of LivingComing SoonCrime RateIncomeComing SoonHealthSchoolsRiskWaterCounty Score