Early Snowstorm Targets Interior Alaska
Interior Alaska is bracing for its first significant snow event of the season. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for central and northern parts of the state, warning of moderate to heavy snowfall from Thursday afternoon through late Friday evening.
Up to 9 Inches of Snow Expected
Forecasts indicate 4 to 9 inches of snow, with elevated areas like the White Mountains and the Upper Chatanika Valley expected to receive the heaviest accumulation. The storm will also impact key travel routes, including the Steese Highway (up to mile marker 90) and Elliott Highway, with slippery roads and low visibility anticipated.
“Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes,” the NWS warned.
Areas Under Advisory
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White Mountains & Chatanika River Valley
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Chena Hot Springs Resort area
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Chena Hot Springs Road (east of milepost 34)
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Steese Highway up to mile 90
Lower elevations may experience mixed precipitation, but even these areas are likely to see accumulation between 3 to 5 inches.
Timing & Travel Hazards
The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. Thursday to 10 p.m. Friday (AKDT). The snow will likely begin with a weaker system Wednesday night and intensify by Thursday evening.
Motorists and residents are advised to:
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Slow down
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Use extra caution
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Monitor road conditions by calling 511
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Watch for icy outdoor surfaces such as stairs and sidewalks
Alaska’s Winter Begins Early
According to NWS Fairbanks, the region already recorded 1.2 inches of snow last weekend, marking an early start to the season. Typically, Fairbanks sees its first inch around October 9, making this storm nearly two weeks ahead of schedule.
“This snow is unlikely to stick around, but keep an eye on the horizon as winter is coming!” NWS Fairbanks posted on social media.
Wider US Weather Impact
Simultaneously, freeze warnings and frost advisories have been issued across several Northeastern states, including:
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New York
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Vermont
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New Hampshire
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Pennsylvania
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Maine
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Massachusetts
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Colorado’s San Luis Valley
Residents are being warned about potential damage to crops, sensitive vegetation, and unprotected plumbing due to sub-freezing temperatures.
