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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Story Native weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Antarctica is the coldest, windiest and driest continent on Earth, with average winter temperatures around −60°C and summer highs rarely above 0°C on the coast. The live forecast above shows current conditions for key research stations, but the interior is permanently frozen and largely inaccessible.
What makes Antarctica’s weather so extreme?
Antarctica’s high elevation, vast ice sheet and polar location create a unique climate. The continent holds the record for the lowest naturally occurring temperature on Earth: −89.2°C at the Soviet Vostok Station in 1983. Coastal areas are milder but still harsh, with katabatic winds that can exceed 200 km/h. In summer (October to February), near-constant daylight allows some surface melting near the coast, while winter brings months of darkness and rapidly falling temperatures.
For a direct comparison with UK conditions, see the UK weather hub or check Glasgow Weather for a typical British winter.
How does the weather change across the year?
Antarctica weather by month follows a stark seasonal pattern. Summer (December to February) sees the coast reach near-freezing, with some rain or sleet; the interior stays below −30°C. Autumn (March to May) brings rapid cooling and increasing wind. Winter (June to August) is brutally cold with 24-hour darkness. Spring (September to November) remains cold but daylight returns, and sea ice begins to break up.
For travellers or researchers, understanding antarctica weather in summer is crucial – it’s the only window for most visits. The antarctica weather forecast 14 days from the live data above is the most reliable short-term guide, though conditions shift quickly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the weather in Antarctica today?
The live forecast above provides the most accurate reading for current conditions at major stations. Generally, today’s weather will be extremely cold with strong winds inland, and slightly less severe on the coast. Always check hourly updates for your specific location.
Does it ever snow in Antarctica?
Yes, but very little – the continent is a polar desert. Snowfall is light except near the coast, where storms can bring antarctica weather today snow events. Most of the ice has accumulated over millions of years, not from frequent fresh snowfall.
How do I find the weather for the next 10 days in Antarctica?
The weather in antarctica 10 days forecast is available in the live data above. For longer planning, such as the antarctica weather forecast 14 days, remember that models struggle with Antarctica’s extreme variability, so check daily updates.