Alaska faces severe winter storm with heavy snow and high winds

A winter storm warning remains in effect for parts of northern Alaska, bringing significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service’s Fairbanks office has issued warnings for several locations, including the South Slopes of the Central Brooks Range, Wiseman, Coldfoot, and sections of the Dalton Highway. Some areas could see up to 18 inches of snow accompanied by winds reaching 45 mph.

In the Upper Koyukuk Valley, including Allakaket, Alatna, and Bettles, forecasters expect up to 12 inches of snow with wind gusts of 30 mph. Additional snowfall of four to eight inches is anticipated throughout Monday evening.

Separate advisories for the central Brooks Range and Atigun Pass forecast up to 6 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 55 mph, which may reduce visibility to below a quarter-mile due to blowing snow. While some valley precipitation may turn to rain during the day, higher elevations will see continued snow accumulation. Residents are advised to prepare for challenging travel and maintain emergency supplies.