Blizzard Warning Issued for Baldwin Peninsula and Kivalina Through Thursday Morning
NWS Fairbanks has issued a blizzard warning for Northwest Alaska, forecasting heavy snow and 60 mph wind gusts starting Tuesday morning.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has issued a Blizzard Warning for parts of Northwest Alaska. The alert is officially effective from 3:00 AM AKST Tuesday, February 17, through 3:00 AM AKST Thursday, February 19.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following geographic regions and coastal areas:
- Baldwin Peninsula
- Kivalina and Red Dog Dock
What You Should Do
Authorities advise that travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If travel is absolutely necessary, residents must carry a winter survival kit. In the event that you become stranded, stay with your vehicle to maintain safety and visibility.
Expected Conditions
Severe winter weather is expected to create hazardous conditions across the region:
- Snow Accumulation: Total snow accumulations are forecast between 4 and 9 inches. The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur along the Baldwin Peninsula.
- Wind Speeds: Winds are expected to gust as high as 60 mph.
- Visibility: Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, creating dangerous conditions for any transit.
- Impacts: Strong winds may cause tree damage and travel is expected to be significantly impacted.
Timeline
- Warning Starts: Tuesday, February 17, at 3:00 AM AKST
- Warning Expires: Thursday, February 19, at 3:00 AM AKST
Source: NOAA Official Notice