Weather Information
In Anchorage, summer begins to wane around mid-August. During this transition phase, conditions can range from beautiful (an "Indian Summer" day, with light winds and abundant sunshine) to downright miserable (fog and horizontal rain). About the only thing, we can say with practical certainty is that there will not be snow or ice. As far as clothing goes, plan and pack for nearly all sorts of conditions except snow. It is best to layer (ideally wearing an outer layer you can toss after you warm up), and to use synthetic clothing rather than cotton. If the last few years are any indication, the weather on race day will be something like this: some rain, some clouds, some wind, and temperatures in the 40's to low 50's at the start. Expect a shower or two during the morning and temperatures in the mid-50's and pushing 60 by the finish of your marathon. During this time of the year, it will be light by 6:30 a.m. The Anchorage office of the National Weather Service posts text forecast of the weather for Anchorage and vicinity two or three times a day, with outlooks for the coming week.
Historical Weather Data (Merrill Field) for Race Day:
Date |
High Temperature (F) |
Low Temperature (F) |
Precipitation |
Average Humidity |
Average Wind Speed & Direction (mph) |
Events |
| 08/16/2009 | 62 |
53 |
0.06 |
83 |
4 (N) |
Rain |
| 08/17/2008 | 64 |
51 |
0.00 |
69 |
4 (W) |
|
| 08/19/2007 | 64 |
55 |
0.03 |
81 |
3 (NW) |
|
| 08/20/2006 | 55 |
46 |
0.37 |
81 |
6 (NNE) |
Rain |
Useful Links:
National Weather Service -- Anchorage Forecast Office.
Anchorage, AK Mesonet Observations.
