Matanuska-Susitna Borough Climate
Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
34.6°F
Annual Precip
19.6"
Annual Snowfall
69.0"
Extreme Heat Days
0
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
693
Limited to cold-tolerant varieties
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Climate Verdict
Matanuska-Susitna Borough has a cold, with an average annual temperature of 34.6°F, semi-arid conditions with only 19.6 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 0.10000000000000002 days above 90°F annually, heavy winter snowfall averaging 69.0 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 11.5°F. summers are cool, with July averaging only 58.6°F. The 47°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Matanuska-Susitna Borough closely matches the Alaska statewide average temperature of 35.7°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 33.9 inches less precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Matanuska-Susitna Borough Weather
Subarctic climate far below national averages
The borough maintains a cold subarctic climate with an average annual temperature of 34.6°F. This is approximately 20 degrees cooler than the national median, reflecting its high-latitude position. Residents never experience extreme heat, as the area records zero days reaching 90°F annually.
A typical mid-range Alaska temperature profile
Matanuska-Susitna averages 34.6°F, sitting very close to the statewide annual average of 35.9°F. While it is significantly warmer than the Arctic regions, it remains cooler than the coastal panhandle. This balance places it in the middle tier of Alaska's temperature rankings.
Drier and warmer than coastal neighbors
With 19.6 inches of annual precipitation, this area is much drier than maritime counties like Sitka, which receives over 150 inches. It is notably warmer than the Nome Census Area, which averages a chilly 28.0°F. The borough benefits from a more protected interior-adjacent climate.
Chilly winters and mild, snow-heavy years
Winter temperatures average a cold 14.3°F, contributing to a significant 69 inches of annual snowfall. Summers remain mild with a July average of 58.6°F and no extreme heat days. This cycle ensures a short growing season and long, reliable snow cover for winter recreation.
Winter preparation is a daily requirement
Heavy-duty winter gear and reliable heating systems are essential for the 11.5°F January average. Snow removal equipment is a priority to manage the nearly six feet of snow that falls annually. Air conditioning is rarely necessary as summer temperatures peak at a modest 58.6°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.