Summer temperatures average in the 50s and low 60s. Winter temperatures average 0 degrees with a wind chill factor much lower. Annual precipitation is 20 inches. Bethel, and Nome are the population centers of the western region. Living conditions encountered in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta are similar to those of the North Slope.
Villages are small and far apart, and refueling can be a major problem.
A method and alternate method for filing and closing flight plans should be planned in advance before proceeding to an area away from an FAA facility. Be sure to make prior arrangements with the FAA if you plan on closing your flight plan in other than the normal manner. Refueling spots are few and far between, and most fuel located at points other than major communities is spotty and owned by local air taxi operators. High winds are not unusual and often occur suddenly without being forecasted. Pilots are cautioned to plan their flights with this in mind as it may involve additional planning for fuel stops.