Antarctica

Antarctica Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Monthly climate averages for Antarctica, temperatures, rainfall and the best time to visit.

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Vostok Station

Climate overview of Antarctica

The continent Antarctica covers a large area around the South Pole at the most southern point of the earth. The climate in Antarctica is very extreme and it is the coldest place on our planet.

Its vastness is almost incomprehensible, with ice sheets and glaciers extending as far as the eye can see. This creates an unbelievable and breathtaking landscape.

The whole of Antarctica has an ice cap climate and it holds the record for the coldest temperature ever measured on the earth. It is also an extremely dry and windy area. The closer you get to the coast, the stronger the wind. These katabatic winds are among the strongest and most persistent on the planet.

Even during its warmest months, temperatures in Antartica remain well below freezing, making it inhospitable for most forms of life.

Explore Antarctica by month

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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Vostok Station

Day temperature (°C)

Monthly rainfall (mm)

Monthly sunshine (hours)

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Climate map

Average daily temperature, monthly rainfall & sunshine hours across cities.

Avg day temp (°C)

0° 32°

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Average daytime and nighttime temperatures, yearly rainfall and sunshine.


Vostok Station	-20°C (-4°F) – 3°C (37°F)	-25°C (-13°F) – 0°C (32°F)	321 mm (13 in)	3,762 hours

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FAQ

What is the best time to visit Antarctica?

The warmest month is July with daytime highs of 3°C (37°F). December is the sunniest month with 710 hours of sunshine. Antarctica has a distinct dry season from October to June. Explore Antarctica weather by month for a detailed breakdown.

What temperatures can I expect in Antarctica?

Daytime highs range from -20°C (-4°F) in January to 3°C (37°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -25°C (-13°F) to 0°C (32°F). Temperatures vary significantly between regions and seasons. See the city comparison for a full overview.

How much rain does Antarctica get?

Annual rainfall is around 321 mm (13 in). July is the wettest month with 47 mm (1.9 in), while January is the driest with 14 mm (0.6 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain. Use the climate map to explore rainfall patterns across regions.

How sunny is Antarctica?

Antarctica receives around 3,762 hours of sunshine per year. December is the sunniest month with 710 hours, while May is the cloudiest with just 0 hours. Overall, Antarctica enjoys abundant sunshine year-round. Compare sunshine across cities in the charts above.