Weather
Southern Alaska Weather Alert: Up to 3 Feet of Snow Possible Through Oct 21
Anchorage, AK – A powerful storm system is bringing heavy snow, widespread rain and gusty winds to Alaska, with some mountain areas potentially receiving up to 3 feet of snow and coastal communities f
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-19T23:50:39.415Z
Anchorage, AK – A powerful storm system is bringing heavy snow, widespread rain and gusty winds to Alaska, with some mountain areas potentially receiving up to 3 feet of snow and coastal communities facing flooding concerns through Wednesday, Oct. 21.
According to the National Weather Service Alaska, the storm is affecting southern portions of the state Monday, Oct. 19, with another round of precipitation expected Tuesday as low pressure strengthens over the Gulf of Alaska.
Heavy Snow Could Reach 3 Feet in Mountain Areas
Forecasters warn that the Interior and Alaska Range could experience significant snowfall, particularly near Isabel Pass, where 2 to 3 feet of snow is possible.
Portions of the eastern Interior could receive 6 to 12 inches, while the Copper River Basin, Thompson Pass and higher elevations of Southcentral Alaska may also experience substantial accumulation.
These conditions could create hazardous travel through mountain passes, where heavy snowfall and reduced visibility may affect drivers.
Coastal Areas Face Heavy Rain and Flooding Concerns
Along the Gulf Coast and across Southeast Alaska, the primary concern is heavy rainfall.
The National Weather Service forecasts 2 to 6 inches of rain in some coastal locations, raising concerns about flooding and isolated landslides, particularly in portions of Southeast Alaska.
Strong winds are also expected along the Gulf Coast, through mountain passes and across Southeast Alaska.
Storm Continues Into Wednesday Morning
The agency's forecast graphics cover two separate 24 hour periods: 4 a.m. Monday to 4 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, and 4 a.m. Tuesday to 4 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21.
The maps indicate widespread precipitation, with the heaviest snowfall concentrated in mountainous areas.
Residents traveling through affected regions should monitor changing road conditions, particularly where snow, heavy rain and strong winds overlap.
Forecast amounts remain uncertain in some locations.
Residents can check updated forecasts and active weather alerts through the National Weather Service at weather.gov .