Fairbanks, Alaska – Snow and 40 mph wind gusts could shut down travel across large stretches of western Alaska beginning Sunday morning, with blowing snow reducing visibility in exposed areas and river valleys.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Sunday morning through Tuesday evening for the Eastern Norton Sound, Nulato Hills, Lower Koyukuk Valley and Middle Yukon Valley. Snow totals between 4 and 8 inches are possible, with the strongest winds targeting coastal and elevated terrain.
Communities including Unalakleet, Elim, Galena, Ruby, Huslia and Kaltag could see periods of heavy snow combined with gusts strong enough to create near-whiteout conditions. Snowmachines and aircraft operations may face significant delays, and travel between villages could become dangerous during peak snowfall Sunday night into Monday.
Farther south along the Yukon Delta Coast and Lower Yukon River, another Winter Storm Watch runs from Sunday morning through Monday morning. Areas such as Bethel’s surrounding villages, Hooper Bay, Emmonak, St. Marys and Pilot Station may see up to 3 inches of snow along with ice accumulations near one-tenth of an inch. Rain mixing in Sunday could freeze on untreated surfaces, creating slick runways, boardwalks and roads.
Residents should secure loose items ahead of strong winds, limit travel during heavier bursts and monitor updated statements as watches could be upgraded to warnings.
