Juneau, AK – Residents across Southeast Alaska are facing dangerous winter conditions tonight as a long-duration snowstorm continues to impact the Alaska Panhandle, prompting multiple Winter Storm Warnings from the National Weather Service in Juneau.
According to the National Weather Service, bands of moderate to heavy snow remain ongoing Sunday night and are expected to persist into Monday, with the most intense snowfall focused along the Icy Strait corridor. A second wave of precipitation moving north from the south is increasing snow rates this evening, with another round expected Monday as a low-pressure system stalls offshore.
The most severe impacts are expected in Hyder, where a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. AKST Tuesday. Additional snowfall totals between 18 and 22 inches are forecast, making travel very difficult. Forecasters note snowfall totals will depend on whether cold air remains entrenched in the area.
In the City and Borough of Juneau, as well as Hoonah and Tenakee Springs, warnings remain in effect until 6 p.m. AKST Monday. Snowfall totals of 6 to 15 inches are expected, along with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph in downtown Juneau, Douglas, and Thane. Blowing snow and reduced visibility could significantly impact the Monday morning commute.
Elsewhere, Admiralty Island, including Angoon, could see an additional 5 to 7 inches of snow through early Monday, while Petersburg, Kake, and Port Alexander are forecast to receive 5 to 8 inches with gusts up to 35 mph. Communities from Cape Fairweather to Lisianski Strait, including Elfin Cove and Pelican, may receive between 14 and 20 inches of snow.
Officials urge residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary and to prepare emergency supplies. Drivers are advised to check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting 511.alaska.gov.
