America’s 5 Coldest States in August Offer a Glorious Break from the Sweltering Heat

The month of August is different for each state. Residents of some states may feel the heat and humidity throughout the entire day, whereas other states can get chilly. If you enjoy summer, then you may enjoy soaking up the sun at the beach during the summer months; however, not all states get to do that! Five states experience temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit during August. This article will discuss the coldest states in August that may make you wonder if it is fall or winter!

1. Alaska

Alaska is located in the northwest region of North America and is the coldest state in the U.S., but how cold can it get there? The coldest recorded temperature in Alaska was on January 23rd, 1971, reading at negative 80 degrees Fahrenheit! Daylight hours are 15.5 hours each day; however, as the day winds down, temperatures drop to the mid-40s! In the north arctic region of Alaska, temperatures range between the mid-30s to the high 50s. Although Alaska is the coldest state in August, this is a perfect time to visit this beautiful state. There aren’t many tourists around and there is an abundance of wildlife to see, such as beavers, humpback whales, orcas, caribou, black bears, brown bears, loons, and bald eagles. The population of Alaska is over 700,00 people with Anchorage being the most populated city. 

2. Idaho

Idaho is another beautiful state that is pretty chilly in August. During the day, Idaho’s temperature ranges in the 80s; however, temperatures drop at nightfall to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest recorded temperature in Idaho was negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit in 1943! If you like chilly weather during this time of the year, there are plenty of activities to do in this state. Hunting and archery are in season during this time of the year. During hikes, you will see bald eagles, falcons, vultures, hawks, bears, elk, owls, and woodland caribou. Boise is the most populated city with over 230,000 people, whereas Banks only has a population of under ten!

3. Wyoming

Wyoming is home to over 500,000 people with 64,000 living in Cheyenne. In August, Wyoming will experience warm temperatures in the 80s; however, during nightfall temperatures will drop to the mid-40s. Negative 66 degrees Fahrenheit was the coldest recorded temperature in Yellowstone in February of 1933. The southwest and southeast regions of Idaho will experience average temperatures ranging in the 40s. The northwest region temperatures can drop in the low 30s, whereas northeast Buffalo will reach up into the 50s. Hiking along the Moose-Wilson road around this time of the year, you may hear or encounter grizzly bears, moose, bison, elk, and bald eagles.

4. Montana

August is the month for fire season in Montana because of dry heat; however, this state cools off below the 50s at nightfall. In the northwest and southern regions, temperatures can average 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Montana has an abundance of hot springs around the state, therefore enduring the cold temperatures may be worth it! Montana is home to over 1 million people with Billings housing 119,000 people. Bozeman, Montana had the coldest record temperature of negative 26 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Oregon

Oregon is the 27th most populous state with over 4 million people. Portland is responsible for over 630,000 people, whereas Beatty only has a population of under 20 people. Oregon has an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 degrees at night. Central Oregon and the Cascade Mountains experience temperatures in the mid-40s. If you are hiking or camping around the mountain or deciduous forest, you may see bats, wolves, hoofed animals, deer, and elk.

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