Blizzard Warning Issued for Bering Strait Coast and Western Alaska Through Wednesday Afternoon
Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Western Alaska
NWS Fairbanks has issued a blizzard warning for Western Alaska, forecasting up to 12 inches of snow and 60 mph wind gusts through Wednesday.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Fairbanks, AK, has issued a Blizzard Warning for several coastal regions in Western Alaska. The alert indicates that blizzard conditions are likely, posing a significant threat to safety and travel.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following geographic regions:
- Bering Strait Coast
- Shishmaref
- Southern Seward Peninsula Coast
- St Lawrence Island
- Yukon Delta Coast
What You Should Do
Residents and travelers in the warning area are advised to take the following precautions:
- Restrict travel to emergencies only.
- If you must travel, ensure you have a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
- If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle to remain sheltered and visible to rescuers.
Expected Conditions
- Snow Accumulation: Total snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches are expected.
- Wind Speeds: Winds are forecasted to gust as high as 60 mph.
- Visibility: Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, making travel very difficult.
- Power Outages: Strong winds may result in localized power outages.
- Additional Details: The heaviest snowfall potential is expected on the south side of the Seward Peninsula.
Timeline
The Blizzard Warning is effective from 3:00 PM AKST Monday, February 16, and is scheduled to remain in effect until 3:00 PM AKST Wednesday, February 18.
Source: NOAA Official Notice