11 Mar 2022 | 11:21 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast across eastern and central Alaska through at least March 12 /update 2
Adverse winter weather forecast across eastern and central Alaska, US, through at least March 12. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Winter weather and winter storm conditions are forecast across much of central and eastern Alaska through at least March 12.
Government Advisories
The National Weather Service had issued the following warnings, watches, and advisories for Alaska as of early March 11:
Winter Storm Warning: Deltana and Tanana Flats; Upper Tanana Valley and the Fortymile Country; Denali; and eastern Alaska Range.
Winter Weather Advisory: Upper Koyukuk Valley; Yukon Flats and Surrounding Uplands: Central Interior; and Copper River Basin.
Special Weather Statement: due to breezy and blustery conditions through at least March 12 for eastern Norton Sound and Nulato Hills; Lower Koyukuk and Middle Yukon valleys; southern Seward Peninsula coast; and Upper Kuskokwim Valley.
Officials may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are forecast in some affected areas. In addition to the snowfall, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in parts of the state. Sporadic power outages are possible.
Transport
The winter weather will probably cause ground and air transport disruptions across much of Alaska over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are likely along regional highways; dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Flight delays and cancellations are likely, including due to possible ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where blizzard conditions or snowfall are forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
