How is the climate in most of Alaska best described?

The climate in most of Alaska is best described as subarctic to arctic due to its geographical location and topography. This classification encompasses the majority of the state, where temperatures can be extremely cold and vary significantly between seasons. In the subarctic regions, winters are long, dark, and harsh, with heavy snowfall, while summers are short and can still be cool.

In the arctic regions, conditions become even more severe. These areas experience polar climates characterized by very low temperatures year-round, with temperatures sometimes plummeting below freezing for much of the year. Like the subarctic regions, summer is brief, but it can also bring continuous daylight during certain months due to Alaska’s high latitude, known as the midnight sun phenomenon.

This climate classification impacts various aspects of life in Alaska, including the ecosystem, wildlife patterns, and the lifestyle of the residents. The vast range of temperatures and weather conditions also highlights the resilience required for both people and wildlife to thrive in such a challenging environment.