Alaska is the largest state in the United States, but it has the third-smallest population. Anchorage is home to around one-half of Alaska’s 750,000 population. A sizable portion of the population lives in Juneau, the capital city.
Alaska, which had been colonized by Native Americans for thousands of years, was long held by Russia. In truth, the territory that became the state was not sold to the US government until 1867. Alaska became the United States’ 49th state in 1959. The state is widely renowned for its harsh environment, but where exactly is Alaska’s coldest place?
Continue reading to learn about Alaska’s coldest spot and the coldest temperature ever recorded in the state. Following that, we’ll go deep into the state’s coldest area.
The Coldest Place in Alaska
We shall determine the coldest place in Alaska based on the lowest annual average temperature. According to that metric, Utqiagvik (previously Barrow) is Alaska’s coldest place. This northern city has an annual average minimum temperature of about 6 degrees Fahrenheit (F). That is incorrect to suggest that Utqiagvik has the coldest temperature ever recorded in the state; rather, it is the coldest spot in Alaska in terms of the lowest average temperature.
Alaska, with its northern latitude, is one of the coldest states in the United States. The annual average temperature (statewide) is 37 degrees Fahrenheit. The average minimum temperature in January is 10 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the coldest month. In comparison, the average maximum temperature in July (the warmest month of the year) is a very mild 66 degrees F.
The Coldest Temperature Ever Recorded in Alaska
Alaska isn’t famous for its harsh, northern winters for nothing. Alaska, which is home to cold-weather species such as moose, caribou, and grizzly bears, can experience harsh winters. The most serious case (in documented history) occurred in 1971. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Alaska is -80 degrees Fahrenheit, which was recorded in Prospect Creek on January 23, 1971. Additionally, 19 locations in the state have reported temperatures of -70 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.
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History of Utqiagvik
As of 2016, the town formerly known as Barrow, Alaska, has reverted to its native Inupiaq name, Utqiagvik. Archaeological data indicate that people have lived in and around Utqiagvik for at least 1,500 years. Utqiagvik, which was incorporated in 1959, is the United States’ northernmost town. Today, it has almost 5,000 full-time residents, many of whom continue to hunt and fish traditionally.
European settlement in Utqiagvik did not begin until after the United States acquired the Alaska Territory in 1867. In the 1880s, the hamlet was home to a Presbyterian church, a whaling station, and a U.S. Army meteorological research facility. Utqiagvik, which is now the North Slope Borough’s official headquarters, is a popular location for more daring travelers.
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What to Do in Utqiagvik?
The coldest spot in Alaska is not for the faint of heart. However, if you can withstand the frigid temps, the voyage is well worth it. After all, Utqiagvik is one of the world’s northernmost settlements, providing an unrivaled, unique experience. From downtown, you may simply walk to the Arctic Ocean coastlines. If you’re courageous enough, you can even dip one or two fingers in.
Point Barrow, the United States’ northernmost point, is a famous tourist attraction. Another is the Whale Bone Arch, a sculpture made entirely of whale bones that represents the Inupiat people’s close link with whaling. If you want to learn more about Utqiagvik’s history, visit the Inupiat Heritage Centre.