Winter Storm Warning Issued for Dalton Highway Summits and White Mountains Through Tuesday

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Interior Alaska

A major winter storm is expected to bring up to 18 inches of snow and 35 mph wind gusts to Alaska's high terrain from Sunday morning through Tuesday.

Winter Storm Warning: Heavy Snow and Blowing Snow Expected in Alaska High Terrain

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Fairbanks, AK, has issued a Winter Storm Warning (WSWAFG) for high-elevation regions. The alert is effective starting at 3:00 AM AKST on Sunday, February 22, and remains in effect until 12:00 PM AKST on Tuesday, February 24.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following geographic regions:

  • Dalton Highway Summits
  • White Mountains
  • High Terrain South of the Yukon River

Expected Conditions

Residents and travelers in the affected zones should prepare for hazardous winter weather conditions:

  • Snow Accumulation: Total snow accumulations between 10 and 18 inches are possible.
  • Wind: Wind gusts are expected to reach as high as 35 mph.
  • Visibility: Periods of blowing snow may reduce visibility to 1/2 mile or less at times.
  • Additional Details: Forecasters expect multiple days of light to moderate snowfall throughout the duration of the warning.

Timeline

The winter storm event is scheduled to begin at 3:00 AM AKST Sunday and is expected to persist until the warning expires at noon on Tuesday.

What You Should Do

Travel could be very difficult during this period. The National Weather Service advises the following precautions:

  • If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
  • Monitor the latest road conditions by visiting 511.alaska.gov or by calling 5-1-1.

Source: NOAA Official Notice