Northwest Arctic Borough Climate
Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska
Avg Annual Temp
23.4°F
Annual Precip
10.5"
Annual Snowfall
64.2"
Extreme Heat Days
0.1
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
Climate Profile
About Northwest Arctic Borough Weather
Deep subarctic cold dominates the year
The annual average temperature of 23.4°F is roughly 30 degrees lower than the national median. This region experiences a true subarctic climate where freezing temperatures are the standard for most months. Extreme heat is nonexistent, with zero days recorded at or above 90°F.
Well below the Alaska state average
The borough's 23.4°F average is significantly colder than the state mean of 35.9°F. It represents the transition from the subarctic interior to the high arctic conditions found further north. It remains one of the coldest jurisdictions in the entire state.
A bridge between Nome and the North Slope
This borough is about 9 degrees warmer than the North Slope but nearly 5 degrees colder than Nome. It receives 10.5 inches of precipitation, making it twice as wet as the North Slope but still relatively dry. Snowfall is consistent at 64.2 inches, more than its northern neighbor.
Frozen winters and cool, brief summers
Winter temperatures average a cold 0.8°F, while January specifically drops to -1.5°F. Summers are brief and cool, peaking at a July average of 53.1°F with no extreme heat days. Most of the 64.2 inches of annual snow falls during the long frozen season.
Prepare for extreme cold and snow
Industrial-grade heating and heavy insulation are mandatory for winter survival in this climate. Residents need specialized gear for the 64.2 inches of snow and sub-zero January lows. Summer planning involves preparing for mild 53°F days rather than heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.