Juneau, Alaska – Snow will intensify overnight across Alaska’s northern Panhandle, with up to 6 inches expected in Yakutat and Skagway before conditions ease Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Juneau, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the City and Borough of Yakutat until noon Wednesday, with an additional 4 to 6 inches of snow likely. Another advisory covers the Municipality of Skagway from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, where 4 to 6 inches of accumulation is expected.
A strengthening low-pressure system is pushing deeper moisture into the region, increasing snowfall rates along the Icy Strait corridor and across the Yakutat area. Forecasters say the heaviest snow band is projected to set up west of Yakutat, but a slight shift east could bring higher totals directly into town.
In Skagway and near White Pass, cold wind chills could drop to 20 below zero, creating frostbite risks on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Travel on local roads and mountain routes may become snow-packed and slick, especially during the Wednesday morning commute.
Drivers are urged to slow down and check Alaska 511 for updated road conditions. Residents should secure property and prepare for brief power disruptions if snowfall rates increase.
Snow should taper by late Wednesday evening, but additional bands could redevelop if the low lingers over the Panhandle.
