Adverse, rapidly changing weather conditions, limited access to supplies and help, large tidal fluctuations and the presence of bears all combine to make recreation in this area both a rewarding experience and one that necessitates careful planning. The following information is intended to aid in that planning and cover some important aspects which you might not consider at first. Climate The Tongass is wet. It rains year round, some months more than others. About half of our precipitation falls from September through December.
Storms predominantly blow out of the southeast.
Winds of 30 knots are common with storm winds frequently up to and exceeding 50 knots. The driest months tend to be June through August. Northerly winds usually bring fair weather though they can still blow at 20 knots during these times. Often during these fair weather days, the north winds will pick up in the afternoons and open bodies of water, such as Frederick Sound, can get three foot choppy seas. There are periods when clear, bright days may persist for several weeks in both winter and summer.