Weather
U.S. Weather: Where 12 Inches of Snow Could Hit by Thursday
Fairbanks, AK – Up to a foot of snow could fall within the United States by Thursday, Oct. 1, as an early season winter pattern targets portions of Alaska with several rounds of accumulating snow.
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-09-28T19:53:31.802Z
Fairbanks, AK – Up to a foot of snow could fall within the United States by Thursday, Oct. 1, as an early season winter pattern targets portions of Alaska with several rounds of accumulating snow.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, areas along the Brooks Range and Isabel Pass could receive total snowfall accumulations of 6 to 12 inches through Thursday night .
Forecasters said multiple waves of snow are expected through the end of the week, putting some of Alaska's mountain corridors firmly into winter conditions as September gives way to October.
The Brooks Range, stretching across northern Alaska, is expected to see repeated periods of snow through Thursday. Farther south, Isabel Pass in the Alaska Range is also expected to receive significant accumulation.
National Weather Service graphics indicate the heaviest snowfall around Isabel Pass could occur Tuesday and Thursday , with several inches accumulating during the multi day event.
While much of the Lower 48 remains far from its first substantial snowfall, Alaska is already moving deeper into its cold season pattern. The higher terrain is especially vulnerable to rapidly changing conditions as colder air and moisture move across the state.
Travelers heading through mountain passes should monitor updated forecasts closely, particularly where accumulating snow could create slick or snow covered roads.
The forecast does not suggest that all of Alaska will see a foot of snow. Instead, the highest totals are concentrated in specific mountain areas, including portions of the Brooks Range and Isabel Pass.
For now, 6 to 12 inches remains possible through Thursday night , putting parts of Alaska in line for one of the more notable early season snow events as October begins.