Located in the vast coastal rainforest of Southeast Alaska, Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities in North America with just over 150 inches of average annual precipitation. Visitors should therefore come prepared for rain, especially if they plan activities on the water or in the forest or otherwise away from town and easy access to shelter.

During the summertime precipitation is generally light and sporadic and daytime temperatures average in the high sixties (F). Wintertime is marked by heavy, cold, wind-driven rain, for months at a time with barely any respite and temperatures in the high thirties.

The area lies in the maritime climate zone noted for its warm winters, cool summers, and heavy precipitation. Summer temperatures range from 51 to 65; winter temperatures range from 29 to 39. Ketchikan averages 162 inches (13.5 feet) of precipitation annually, including 32 inches of snowfall.
The climate of Southeast Alaska is typically cool and damp.

Annual rainfall exceeds 160 inches at Ketchikan and in other parts of Southeast Alaska. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 70 degrees F. and average in the fifties. In this maritime climate, travelers should always be prepared rain. Fog and low visibility. Weather can vary greatly, even in the summer.

Be prepared for cold weather and precipitation at all times. If you travel in the backcountry, be prepared for insects. Mosquitoes and black flies are plentiful and ravenous. Even on short hikes, be aware of the danger of hypothermia, the lowering of the internal body temperature that may lead to mental and physical collapse. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to the cold, and it is aggravated by wetness, wind, and exhaustion-all circumstances which can occur rapidly in Alaska’s changing climate.

Spring, summer, and fall: A light shirt, short or long sleeved, makes an excellent first layer. Your second layer should consist of something for warmth like a sweater or fleece pullover. The ideal outer layer is a light waterproof jacket. Layers should be lightweight and easy to remove depending on weather changes or your activity. Don’t forget shorts or sleeveless shirts for those warmer days!

Winter: Use a heavier jacket as your outer layer. Be sure to bring a hat, scarf and pair of gloves.