Expert: Michael Donaldson - 3/15/2007

Question
Hello Michael,
It's great to get your prompt reply. Thanks!
I plan to visit Seward and Homer, if road condition permits, I would like to drive north to see Mt. Mckinley.
So, as you mentioned, the temperature and road condition should be ok in late April?
Sincerely,
YC
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I plan to visit AK in late April or early May, however, I found the temperature in AK has been abnormally low recently. Do you agree?

I am worrying that this freezing condition will last till my arrival, can this be possible?

Your reply will be very important to my trip arrangement.

Sincerely,
YC   

-----Answer-----
YC,

Well, it's really hard for me to give you a good answer since you never wrote where in Alaska you plan on visiting.

Many folks just don't realize how massive that state is and how the weather can be completely different from Juneau to Anchorage and then different again up to Fairbanks. For example: in April or May it could very well be 50F degrees and rainy in Juneau; 35F degrees, windy, and sunny in Anchorage; and 20F degrees, no wind, and snowing in Fairbanks. Alaska is nearly 1/4 the size of the whole lower 48 states, so that would be like not knowing if you want to cancel a trip to Montana because you heard the weather in Kansas could be bad.  ?   I think you get my point.

Anyway, (if you ARE going to Anchorage) the weather by the end of next week is forecasted to be in the mid 30's (no different than in Wisconsin). So trust me, the weather by late April or early May will be at LEAST in the 50's and could very well even reach 60-65F degrees by then. So by all means, don't panic or cancel any travel plans...just dress for cool weather and ENJOY yourself!  

I hope that helps. Please feel free to write me back if you'd like. Take care and have a blast up there YC...I know you will.  =)

 Michael  

Answer
The roads and weather conditions in and outside both Seward and Homer should be fine in late April. Just plan on cool and damp weather, since it'll be Spring time, but still sloshy around the shoreline areas down on the Kenai Peninsula. I'd suggest packing some good boots, if you have them. Take care and again, have fun up there...it's an experience you will never forget YC.  

 Michael