Chevak, Alaska Weather by Month

Chevak, Alaska Weather by Month

Chevak is a small city located in the Kusilvak Census Area of Alaska, United States. Situated in the southwestern part of the state, Chevak lies near the Bering Sea, approximately 17 miles inland from Hooper Bay and about 150 miles northwest of Bethel. The city covers an area of about 5.9 square miles and has a population of around 1,000 residents, predominantly of Yup’ik descent. Chevak is known for its rich indigenous culture and traditions, which are deeply rooted in the community’s daily life.

Geographically, Chevak is part of the vast Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, characterized by its expansive wetlands, tundra, and numerous rivers and streams. The city’s landscape is relatively flat, with many waterways that serve as essential routes for transportation and subsistence activities such as fishing and hunting. The region’s remote location and natural beauty make it a unique and serene place to live.

While Chevak does not host large corporations or universities, it is home to the Chevak School, part of the Kashunamiut School District, which serves as a central educational institution for the community. The city also features several landmarks that reflect its cultural heritage, such as the Qargi Center, a community center where traditional dances, games, and gatherings are held.

Climate and Weather Overview

Chevak experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. This type of climate is typical for much of Alaska, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. The city’s proximity to the Bering Sea influences its weather patterns, contributing to relatively moderate temperatures compared to more inland areas, but also leading to high humidity and frequent precipitation.

Average Monthly Climate Data

Month Average Temperature (°F) Average Precipitation (in) Average Sunny Days
January -2.0 1.3 5
February 2.0 1.1 6
March 10.0 1.0 8
April 22.0 0.7 10
May 36.0 0.8 12
June 49.0 1.2 14
July 54.0 2.3 16
August 52.0 2.8 14
September 42.0 3.2 12
October 28.0 2.5 8
November 14.0 1.8 6
December 2.0 1.5 4

Weather by Month

January

January in Chevak is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, with average lows around -8°F and highs reaching about 5°F. Snowfall is common, contributing to the winter landscape. Precipitation averages around 1.3 inches, mostly in the form of snow.

Natural Disasters

Chevak occasionally experiences severe winter storms in January, which can lead to heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions, causing travel disruptions and power outages.

Activities

Inside Activities: Indoor activities such as attending community gatherings at the Qargi Center, cultural events, and school functions are popular.

Outside Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts often engage in activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and dog sledding on the frozen tundra.

February

February remains very cold with similar temperature patterns to January. Average lows are around -6°F, and highs reach about 8°F. Precipitation is slightly lower, averaging 1.1 inches.

Natural Disasters

Severe winter storms continue to pose a threat, although they are less frequent than in January.

Activities

Inside Activities: Cultural events, workshops at the community center, and indoor sports at the school gymnasium offer indoor entertainment.

Outside Activities: Outdoor activities include cross-country skiing and ice skating on local ponds and rivers.

March

March marks the beginning of a gradual warming trend with temperatures starting to rise. Average lows are around 2°F, and highs reach about 18°F. Precipitation averages 1.0 inches, primarily as snow.

Natural Disasters

Blizzards can still occur, but the frequency and intensity typically decrease.

Activities

Inside Activities: Spring crafts, indoor markets, and educational events become popular as residents look forward to warmer weather.

Outside Activities: Early spring hunting and continued ice fishing are common as the ice remains thick.

April

April sees a more noticeable increase in temperatures, with lows around 10°F and highs averaging 34°F. Rainfall is more common, with an average precipitation of 0.7 inches.

Natural Disasters

The risk of severe weather decreases, but snowmelt can cause localized flooding.

Activities

Inside Activities: Art exhibits, cultural presentations, and indoor sports continue to draw crowds.

Outside Activities: Spring hunting, bird watching, and early hiking are enjoyed as the weather becomes more favorable.

May

May brings significantly warmer temperatures with lows around 26°F and highs reaching 46°F. Precipitation averages 0.8 inches, with a mix of rain and snow.

Natural Disasters

Flooding from snowmelt and spring rains can occur, especially in low-lying areas.

Activities

Inside Activities: Indoor concerts and theater performances provide cultural experiences.

Outside Activities: Fishing, boating, and picnics become common as the weather improves.

June

June is the start of summer with temperatures ranging from lows of 39°F to highs of 59°F. It is one of the wetter months, with an average precipitation of 1.2 inches.

Natural Disasters

The risk of natural disasters is low, but dry conditions can increase the risk of wildfires.

Activities

Inside Activities: Educational programs, community events, and local festivals attract locals and visitors.

Outside Activities: Hiking, fishing, and camping are popular as residents take advantage of the warm weather.

July

July is the warmest month with average lows around 45°F and highs reaching 63°F. Precipitation is slightly higher at 2.3 inches, with frequent rain showers.

Natural Disasters

Heatwaves can occur, but severe weather such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes are more common.

Activities

Inside Activities: Visiting air-conditioned museums and attending indoor events are favored during hot spells.

Outside Activities: Swimming, boating, and attending outdoor concerts are popular summertime activities.

August

August remains warm with temperatures ranging from lows of 43°F to highs of 61°F. Precipitation averages 2.8 inches, mostly from rain showers.

Natural Disasters

Similar to July, thunderstorms and heatwaves are the primary weather concerns.

Activities

Inside Activities: Indoor sports and community center events provide relief from the summer heat.

Outside Activities: Hiking, camping, and participating in local fairs and festivals are common.

September

September sees a gradual cooling with lows around 37°F and highs of 52°F. Precipitation averages 3.2 inches, mostly from fall showers.

Natural Disasters

The risk of severe weather decreases, but occasional thunderstorms can still occur.

Activities

Inside Activities: Fall arts and crafts fairs, along with cultural events, are popular.

Outside Activities: Apple picking, hiking, and enjoying the fall foliage at local parks and preserves are favored activities.

October

October brings cooler temperatures with lows around 30°F and highs reaching 43°F. Precipitation averages 2.5 inches, often in the form of light rain.

Natural Disasters

The likelihood of natural disasters is low, although early frost can impact agriculture.

Activities

Inside Activities: Halloween events and indoor fall festivals attract families.

Outside Activities: Leaf peeping, hayrides, and visiting pumpkin patches are popular outdoor activities.

November

November sees further cooling with lows around 19°F and highs averaging 30°F. Precipitation averages 1.8 inches, transitioning from rain to occasional snow.

Natural Disasters

Early winter storms can occur, but they are generally mild.

Activities

Inside Activities: Holiday craft fairs and indoor community gatherings begin to take place.

Outside Activities: Hiking and preparing for winter sports are common as residents enjoy the last of the fall weather.

December

December is characterized by cold temperatures with lows around 8°F and highs of 20°F. Precipitation averages 1.5 inches, mostly as snow.

Natural Disasters

Winter storms and heavy snowfall can disrupt travel and daily activities.

Activities

Inside Activities: Holiday events, indoor markets, and family gatherings are prevalent during the festive season.

Outside Activities: Ice skating, snowmobiling, and winter hiking in nearby parks provide outdoor entertainment.

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