Kotzebue (AK) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kotzebue.

Climate overview of Kotzebue

The climate in Kotzebue, Alaska, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 12°C (54°F) in August to -15°C (5°F) in January.

With around 418 mm (16 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Kotzebue has a fairly dry climate. However, it has a distinct dry season from November to June, with cold summers and very cold winters. The wettest month is August, while March sees the least rain.

Kotzebue Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kotzebue - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Kotzebue

In Kotzebue, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Average daytime temperatures reach a chilly 12°C (54°F) in August. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very cold -15°C (5°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 8°C (46°F) in August to -20°C (-4°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Kotzebue

Kotzebue typically sees modest rain/snowfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 418 mm (16 in). Kotzebue can be quite wet during August, receiving approximately 75 mm (3 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (March), you will experience much drier conditions, with 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation spread across 7 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Kotzebue Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Humidity in Kotzebue by Month

Wind Speed in Kotzebue

Best Time to Visit Kotzebue

The most favourable weather available in Kotzebue usually occurs in June and August. Conditions are generally most challenging in January, February, March, April, May, July, September, October, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: June and August
  • Warmest weather: August
  • Fewest rainy days: February, March, May and June
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from November to June, with cold summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -20°C (-4°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kotzebue

What is the best time to visit Kotzebue?

June and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Kotzebue. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, July, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Kotzebue has a distinct dry season from November to June, with cold summers and very cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Kotzebue?

Daytime highs range from -15°C (5°F) in January to 12°C (54°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -20°C (-4°F) to 8°C (46°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Kotzebue get?

Annual rainfall is around 418 mm (16 in). August is the wettest month with 75 mm (3 in), while March is the driest with 18 mm (0.7 in).

Kotzebue 3-Day Forecast

Kotzebue (AK) 3-Day Forecast

Kotzebue on the map

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