Anchorage, AK – Residents along the Kuskokwim Delta Coast and Nunivak Island are facing dangerous whiteout conditions tonight as a blizzard warning remains in effect until 5 a.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Anchorage.
According to NWS forecasters, the system is producing heavy blowing snow, wind gusts up to 50 mph, and visibility dropping to one-quarter mile or less. Additional snowfall between two and four inches is expected through early Monday. Meteorologists say blizzard conditions are already ongoing over Nelson Island and Nunivak Island, and conditions will continue to deteriorate along the wider Kuskokwim Delta Coast into the night.
The storm is expected to significantly impact travel in communities including Kipnuk, Mekoryuk, Quinhagak, and Toksook Bay. According to NWS, the combination of strong winds and persistent snowfall will create periods of zero visibility, drifting snow, and treacherous conditions on local roads and open tundra routes. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches or cause blowing snow to stack against homes and buildings.
The weather service notes that an earlier winter weather advisory for the region was upgraded to a full blizzard warning after observations confirmed widespread hazardous conditions. Forecasters urge anyone who must travel to carry a winter survival kit, remain with their vehicle if stranded, and avoid unnecessary movement during peak whiteout periods.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunrise Monday as winds weaken and snowfall tapers off. However, travel disruptions may linger into the morning.
