February Weather in Fairbanks, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In February, Fairbanks, United States, experiences extreme winter conditions, characterized by a maximum temperature of 4°C (40°F), an average chill of -16°C (3°F), and a staggering minimum plunge to -40°C (-39°F). This chilly month accumulates a total precipitation of 24 mm (1.0 in) over approximately 7 days, contributing to the already high humidity level of 93%. With these conditions, February in Fairbanks is a striking display of winter's grip, perfect for those seeking the serene beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

February Temperature in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks continues to embrace its deep Alaskan winter, with temperatures showcasing a slight decrease from January. The minimum temperature hovers around a bone-chilling -40°C (-39°F), while average daily temperatures rest at a frigid -16°C (3°F). Despite the cold, the maximum temperature remains steady at 4°C (40°F), mirroring the warmth of January; this stability suggests a brief respite in the harshness of winter. As the month progresses, signs of transitioning seasons begin to emerge, with a gradual climb towards March's milder conditions. Overall, February in Fairbanks is characterized by intense cold, yet underlined by hints of spring on the horizon.

February Weather in Fairbanks: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates February temperature patterns in Fairbanks, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-321433526365584833115
Data source: Temperature data for Fairbanks generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

February Precipitation in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 24 mm (1.0 in) falling over an average of 7 days. This marks a significant rise from January's 13 mm (0.5 in), suggesting the winter months are becoming wetter as the region transitions into spring. The increase in both total precipitation and the number of rainy days hints at a shift in weather patterns, setting the stage for the upcoming months. As February navigates the frosty landscape, the additional moisture likely contributes to a gradual thaw, paving the way for a more dynamic spring season.

February Precipitation Trends in Fairbanks

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Fairbanks, with values for each month alongside February's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how February's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1324212024564910443393133
Data source: Precipitation data for February generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

February Humidity in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks experiences a slight decrease in humidity, averaging 93%, down from the January high of 96%. This minor drop indicates a gradual transition as winter approaches its end, reflecting a trend of diminishing humidity levels moving into spring. March sees a further decline to 89%, continuing the march towards the drier months ahead. Notably, as the seasons shift from February to April, humidity consistently decreases, hinting at the eventual thaw and warmer temperatures. This seasonal rhythm showcases Fairbanks' unique climate, where winter's high humidity gives way to early signs of spring, fostering a captivating transition in atmospheric conditions.

February Average Humidity in Fairbanks

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Fairbanks, with February's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how February's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97%93%89%85%77%78%85%88%90%97%100%99%
Data source: Humidity data for February generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

February UV Index in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks experiences a UV Index of 1, maintaining a low exposure category similar to January, with a burn time of 45 minutes. This consistent level illustrates a serene winter atmosphere where sun exposure remains minimal and safe. As we transition into March, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, indicating the gradual strengthening of sunlight as the days lengthen. This subtle uptick signals the coming of spring and the need for heightened awareness regarding sun exposure. For those planning their outdoor activities during this time, understanding these trends can help ensure sun safety. For more information on UV levels throughout the year, check out Fairbanks UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Fairbanks for February

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Fairbanks in February, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112355553211
Data source: Fairbanks February UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

February Sunshine in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks experiences a delightful increase in sunshine, basking in 115 hours of bright daylight, a remarkable jump from the 43 hours seen in January. This surge indicates a promising trend as winter loosens its grip, with the sun beginning to reclaim the sky. As the days lengthen, the transition into spring becomes increasingly evident, setting the stage for March's impressive tally of 214 hours. This upward trajectory continues into the subsequent months, where Fairbanks reaches the pinnacle of daylight in June with 424 hours. February stands as a pivotal point in this seasonal shift, showcasing a steady progression toward the lush, sun-drenched days of summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Fairbanks: February Highlighted

The February sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Fairbanks experiences direct sunlight during the month of February, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of February with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec43h115h214h304h392h424h367h247h199h131h72h34h
Data source: Fairbanks February Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Fairbanks During February

In Fairbanks, United States, February offers a slightly brighter outlook for sunshine, with a 42% chance of clear skies—a modest increase from January's 41%. This trend of improving weather continues into early spring, as April sees a notable jump to 49%, highlighting the gradual transition toward sunnier days. As we look further into the year, March dips to 34%, suggesting that winter's grip lingers momentarily. February stands out as a pivotal month, where the promise of sun begins to hint at the warmer months ahead, perfectly setting the stage for the natural beauty that Fairbanks will soon embrace.

Percentage of Sunny Days in February in Fairbanks

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Fairbanks throughout the year, with February highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Fairbanks experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec41%42%34%49%35%36%34%17%34%20%37%23%
Data source: Fairbanks February chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Fairbanks in February

In February, Fairbanks witnesses a remarkable transition as daylight duration increases to 8 hours, an encouraging shift from the mere 5 hours experienced in January. This early glimpse of longer days sets the stage for the impending spring, where daylight climbs steadily each month. Following February, March ushers in 11 hours of sunlight, which continues to blossom to an impressive 21 hours by June, marking the peak of the summer solstice. This gradual lengthening of daylight not only invigorates the landscape but also lifts the spirits of the community, contrasting sharply with the harsher winter months when daylight dwindles to just 3 hours in December. Thus, February is not only a month of transition but also a herald of brighter days ahead, encouraging anticipation for the warmth and vibrancy of spring and summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Fairbanks for February

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Fairbanks throughout the year, with February highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 15m8h 29m11h 52m15h 19m18h 49m21h 24m19h 49m16h 20m12h 55m9h 32m6h 10m3h 55m
Data source: Fairbanks daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

February Winds in Fairbanks

In February, Fairbanks experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), slightly less than the previous month's 2.7 m/s. This decline mirrors a broader winter trend, as the winds gradually taper off when compared to January. As we transition into March, the winds continue to soften, reaching 2.1 m/s, suggesting a gradual warming trend as spring approaches. Interestingly, despite the dip in wind speed, February still maintains a fairly consistent breeziness compared to the other winter months, allowing residents to enjoy the crisp, cold air without the gusty challenges that can accompany harsher conditions. With this calmness, February serves as a bridge between the bitter cold of winter and the mellow beginnings of spring, making it a uniquely serene time in Fairbanks.

Average February Wind Speed in Fairbanks

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Fairbanks, with values for each month shown alongside February's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how February's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.72.4 m/s2.12.62.21.92.22.11.92.02.12.7
Data source: Fairbanks February wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How February Weather in Fairbanks Compares to Other Months

The weather in Fairbanks changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of February's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Fairbanks and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather between January and February, January typically experiences colder temperatures, with minimums plunging to -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -19°C (-2°F), whereas February sees slightly milder lows at -40°C (-39°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F). Both months have a maximum temperature plateau of 4°C (40°F), but February exhibits more precipitation with 24 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, compared to January's 13 mm (0.5 in) across 4 days. The humidity remains fairly high in both months, with January slightly higher at 96% compared to February's 93%. For more detailed information, you can check out Fairbanks weather in January.

February and March in Fairbanks exhibit notable differences in temperature and overall weather conditions. In February, temperatures are colder, with an average of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum reaching just 4°C (40°F). The month experiences high humidity levels at 93% and receives 24 mm of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, March sees a slight warming trend, with an average temperature of -10°C (14°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 21 mm over 6 days, and humidity levels also drop to 89%. For more detailed information, check Fairbanks weather in March.

February and April present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In February, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -40°C (-39°F) and hover around an average of -16°C (3°F), with a maximum of just 4°C (40°F). The month sees substantial precipitation amounting to 24 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 93%. In comparison, April experiences a notable warming trend, with minimum temperatures at -29°C (-19°F) and average values reaching around 0°C (33°F). The maximum temperature can rise to a pleasant 19°C (66°F), while precipitation slightly decreases to 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 5 days and humidity lowers to 85%. For more details on the weather in April, visit Fairbanks weather in April.

February and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In February, temperatures plunge to a chilling minimum of -40°C (-39°F), with an average of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of only 4°C (40°F). The month sees high humidity at 93%, along with 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days. In comparison, May experiences a significant warm-up, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and averages soaring to 11°C (52°F), reaching a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F). The humidity drops to 77%, and precipitation remains similar at 24 mm (0.9 in) over 7 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Fairbanks weather in May.

February and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. February experiences extreme cold, with average temperatures hovering around -16°C (3°F) and reaching as low as -40°C (-39°F). This month sees a significant amount of humidity at 93%, with light precipitation occurring on about 7 days, totaling 24 mm (1.0 in). In contrast, June brings much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation increases in June, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 12 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 78%. For more detailed information, you can check Fairbanks weather in June.

February and July present stark contrasts in weather, especially in terms of temperature and precipitation. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -40°C (-39°F), with an average of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of only 4°C (40°F). The month experiences about 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity at 93%. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 18°C (66°F), and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). This summer month sees slightly more precipitation at 49 mm (1.9 in) over 10 days, but with lower humidity at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Fairbanks weather in July.

February and August present stark contrasts in weather. In February, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -40°C (-39°F), with an average of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of just 4°C (40°F), accompanied by high humidity at 93%. Precipitation is relatively low, with about 24 mm (1.0 in) falling over 7 days. In contrast, August warms up significantly, showcasing a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F). This month also experiences increased precipitation, with 104 mm (4.1 in) expected over 15 days and slightly lower humidity at 88%. To explore more about the weather in August, you can check out Fairbanks weather in August.

February and September present strikingly different weather patterns. In February, temperatures plummet, with averages around -16°C (3°F) and extreme lows reaching -40°C (-39°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 93% and minimal precipitation, averaging 24 mm (1.0 in) over about 7 days. In contrast, September offers a more moderate climate, with average temperatures rising to 9°C (48°F) and highs reaching 23°C (74°F). The humidity remains high at 90%, but precipitation increases to 43 mm (1.7 in) over 9 days, signaling the transition into fall. For more details, check out Fairbanks weather in September.

February and October present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plunge as low as -40°C (-39°F), with an average of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum reaching only 4°C (40°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 93% and moderate precipitation of 24 mm (1.0 in) over approximately 7 days. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F), an average of 0°C (33°F), and a maximum that can rise to 19°C (66°F). Though it also sees precipitation on 7 days, the total is higher at 39 mm (1.5 in) and humidity reaches 97%. For more detailed insights, check out Fairbanks weather in October.

February and November display strikingly cold weather, but with some notable differences. In February, temperatures range from a chilling -40°C (-39°F) at night to a slightly more tolerable high of 4°C (40°F), with an average temperature of -16°C (3°F). This month typically sees about 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over 7 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 93%. In contrast, November presents a slightly milder climate with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and peaking at 8°C (46°F), resulting in an average temperature of -12°C (11°F). It also receives a bit more precipitation at 31 mm (1.2 in) across 8 days, and remarkably, the humidity is at 100%, indicating a very damp atmosphere. For more detailed insights on the weather during November, visit Fairbanks weather in November.

In February, the weather in Fairbanks features slightly warmer temperatures compared to December, with average lows of -16°C (3°F) and maximums reaching 4°C (40°F). February also experiences a bit less precipitation, totaling 24 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, while maintaining high humidity at 93%. In contrast, December has minimal variation in temperatures, with an average low of -15°C (5°F) and maximums of 5°C (41°F). Despite being slightly colder, December records more precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) across 6 days and a higher humidity of 99%. For more insights, you can check Fairbanks weather in December.

Compare Fairbanks's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From February Weather in Fairbanks

February in Fairbanks presents a unique contrast to the milder months of the year. With temperatures often dipping into the extreme cold, the average chill can feel particularly biting, showcasing the true essence of winter in Alaska. The humidity levels remain high, adding a notable bite to the crisp air, while the limited precipitation keeps the snow cover relatively intact. As the month progresses, the transition towards longer days hints at the forthcoming spring, making February both a challenging and beautiful chapter in Fairbanks’ climatic story. For a deeper understanding of the region's weather patterns, explore Fairbanks Climate.