The winter season in Alaska has commenced with remarkable snowfall and plummeting temperatures across the state. December 2025 will be remembered for its record-breaking weather, particularly in Southeast Alaska, where Juneau experienced its snowiest month ever. During this time, temperatures in Juneau also reached lows not seen in over four decades.
Record Snowfall in Juneau
Juneau recorded an extraordinary total of 82 inches of snow in December. This amount surpassed the previous record for the month by nearly 30 inches. Within a five-day period, the city received 49 inches of snow, shattering multiple previous records set for three, four, and five days. Nearby Haines reported even more, with some areas accumulating up to 77 inches in that same timeframe.
Cold Snap in Fairbanks
Simultaneously, Fairbanks faced its coldest period in 50 years. The average temperatures during the last seven and thirty days saw lows remarkably lower than what residents had experienced in decades. The last significant cold stretch in Fairbanks dates back to 1975, making this winter’s conditions historically significant.
Temperature Records
- Fairbanks could establish a new record for consecutive days with temperatures below zero.
- It has already entered the top ten longest streaks for temperatures reaching 45 degrees below zero.
- Additionally, it ranks amongst the top for consecutive days without temperatures above 35 degrees below zero.
Weather in Anchorage
In contrast, Anchorage faced a more complex weather situation, characterized by high winds throughout December. This led to significant temperature variations across short distances within the city. While temperatures at Anchorage International Airport hovered around 13.5 degrees, nearby areas experienced lows as extreme as 10 degrees below zero.
Statewide Weather Impacts
- Anchorage’s December was the coldest since 2010.
- Sparse snowfall was reported, with only four inches accumulating in the city.
- Palmer experienced its windiest December on record, enduring four significant windstorms.
This winter’s early onset has posed various challenges across Alaskan cities, affecting residents with significant snowfall, low temperatures, and strong winds. The remarkable weather patterns this December highlight the unpredictability and intensity of winter in Alaska, marking it as a season to remember.
