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Seward Climate A
Surprisingly Mild Climate
Seward has long been plagued with many a
misconception about its being cold and dark.
The truth is, Seward is far south of the
Arctic Circle. Warmed by Japanese currents
of the Pacific Ocean, the climate is
actually quite mild year-round.
Spring through fall, Seward's climate is
similar to San Francisco's spring weather,
with temperatures that can reach into the
70's. Summer highs average 65 degrees F/18
degrees C.
Winters bring on the snow with high
temperatures dipping into the 20s, creating
a climate very much like ski resorts in the
Rocky Mountains, Canada or Europe. Low
humidity also contributes to Seward's
comfortable climate.
What to Wear
The weather is perfect for casual wear for
people taking advantage of the area's many
outdoor activities. Visitors may notice a
drop in temperature when taking a chairlift
ride to the top of Mt. Alyeska or hiking in
the nearby Chugach Mountains, so it's a good
idea to bring a jacket for those activities.
The key to comfort in Alaska is wearing
layers of clothing, then peel on or off as
needed.
Comfortable walking shoes are great for all
seasons. In winter, bring heavier layers,
long underwear, warm hat and gloves, and
warm boots. Alaska's informality is perfect
for visitors; casual wear is welcome
virtually everywhere.
Daylight Hours
Let there be light! In Seward, there are 24
hours of functional daylight on Summer
Solstice. The further north you travel, the
more sun you get in the summer; in Barrow
the sun does not set for 84 days! The day
with the least amount is on Winter Solstice,
yet Seward still enjoys 7:35 hours of
daylight. During winter, the farther north
the fewer the daylight hours.
A Photographer's Dream
Long, lingering twilight hours paint Seward
in a heavenly light. Even in winter, the sun
is low on the horizon for extended periods,
creating a warm, rich light over the already
impressive landscape. Of course the darkness
brings with it the possibility of seeing the
Northern Lights (best viewed under dark,
moonless skies).
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