Blizzard Warning Issued for Bering Strait Coast and Diomede Through Thursday Afternoon

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has issued a Blizzard Warning for the Bering Strait Coast and Diomede. The alert is effective immediately and remains in place until 3:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 12.

Affected Areas

This warning impacts the Bering Strait Coast and Diomede, specifically including Shishmaref and Wales.

What You Should Do

Officials advise residents to slow down and use caution while traveling. Travelers should be prepared for difficult conditions and significant reductions in visibility. The National Weather Service recommends taking necessary preparations for the expected weather.

Expected Conditions

Forecasters expect periods of blizzard conditions with additional snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Winds are projected to gust as high as 45 mph. The combination of falling and blowing snow may reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less at times.

Timeline

The warning is scheduled to expire at 3 PM AKST Thursday. The most intense conditions are expected at Wales and Diomede from Wednesday mid-day through the afternoon as winds shift northerly through the Bering Strait and strengthen. Winds are forecast to weaken Wednesday night into early Thursday morning, which will allow conditions to begin improving.