Kaktovik, Alaska – Travel along Alaska’s eastern Beaufort Sea coast is becoming impossible as powerful winds drive blinding snow across the region, dropping visibility below a quarter mile and creating full whiteout conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Wednesday for areas including Kaktovik, Point Thomson, and Flaxman Island. Wind gusts up to 50 mph are combining with falling and blowing snow, reducing visibility to near zero at times despite only minor additional snowfall.
The most dangerous conditions are expected through Tuesday, when winds intensify again after a brief lull Monday night. Even short-distance travel can become disorienting, with no visible landmarks and rapidly drifting snow covering established paths.
Emergency officials warn that travel should be restricted to emergencies only. Those who must venture out should carry a full winter survival kit, including food, water, and extra heat sources. If stranded, staying with your vehicle can be life-saving in extreme Arctic conditions.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunrise Wednesday, but blizzard impacts may linger, and additional advisories could follow if winds remain elevated.
