Blizzard Warning Issued for Bering Strait Coast and Shishmaref Through Thursday Afternoon
The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for the Bering Strait Coast, including Shishmaref and Diomede, as high winds and blowing snow create dangerous travel conditions.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Fairbanks, AK, has issued a Blizzard Warning for the Bering Strait Coast. The alert is currently in effect and remains active until 3:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 12.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following geographic regions in Alaska:
- Bering Strait Coast
- Shishmaref
- Diomede
What You Should Do
Residents and travelers in the warning area are advised to slow down and use extreme caution while traveling. Visibility may be significantly reduced, making navigation difficult. Ensure you are prepared for hazardous winter conditions if you must be outdoors.
Expected Conditions
Weather officials expect periods of blizzard conditions throughout the duration of the warning. Specific hazards include:
- Snow Accumulation: Additional snow totals between 1 and 2 inches.
- Wind: Gusts reaching as high as 45 mph.
- Visibility: Blowing and falling snow are expected to reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less at times.
- Impacts: Travel is expected to be difficult due to the combination of wind and snow.
Timeline
The Blizzard Warning was issued at 11:12 PM AKST on Wednesday, February 11. The hazardous conditions are expected to persist until the warning expires at 3:00 PM AKST on Thursday, February 12.
Source: NOAA Official Notice