Climate of Antarctica — Month by Month
Country-wide average for Antarctica. Part of Antarctica, Antarctica.
Located in Antarctica, Antarctica, Antarctica has a polar or high-altitude climate. Country-wide average temperatures range from -27°C / -16.6°F in August to -2.9°C / 26.8°F in January, with annual rainfall totalling around 178 mm / 7 in — driest in October (8 mm / 0.3 in), wettest in March (20 mm / 0.8 in). These are national averages; regional variation can be substantial, especially in geographically diverse countries. For city-level detail see the cities section below, and for state or province breakdowns follow the subdivisions link if available.
Best time to visit Antarctica →
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -2.9°C26.8°F | 15 mm0.6″ | — |
| February | -9.5°C14.9°F | 18 mm0.7″ | — |
| March | -18.5°C-1.3°F | 20 mm0.8″ | Snowy |
| April | -23°C-9.4°F | 18 mm0.7″ | — |
| May | -24°C-11.2°F | 15 mm0.6″ | — |
| June | -25.5°C-13.9°F | 12 mm0.5″ | — |
| July | -26°C-14.8°F | 20 mm0.8″ | Snowy |
| August | -27°C-16.6°F | 15 mm0.6″ | — |
| September | -25°C-13°F | 10 mm0.4″ | — |
| October | -19.5°C-3.1°F | 8 mm0.3″ | — |
| November | -11°C12.2°F | 12 mm0.5″ | — |
| December | -4.5°C23.9°F | 15 mm0.6″ | — |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Antarctica?
Antarctica does not have a clear sunny-and-dry window by our cutoffs. The warmest month is January at -2.9°C / 26.8°F, and the driest is October at 8 mm / 0.3 in — likely your best travel window.
What is the climate of Antarctica?
Antarctica has country-wide monthly average temperatures ranging from -27°C / -16.6°F in August to -2.9°C / 26.8°F in January. Annual rainfall averages about 178 mm / 7 in, with the wettest month being March (20 mm / 0.8 in) and the driest October (8 mm / 0.3 in). Regional variation within Antarctica can be significant — see subdivision or city pages for detail.
What is the hottest month in Antarctica?
The hottest month in Antarctica is January, with a country-wide average temperature of -2.9°C / 26.8°F.
What is the coldest month in Antarctica?
The coldest month in Antarctica is August, with a country-wide average temperature of -27°C / -16.6°F.
When does it rain most in Antarctica?
The wettest month in Antarctica is March, averaging about 20 mm / 0.8 in of rain. The driest is October with about 8 mm / 0.3 in.