Anchorage, AK – A powerful storm system is taking shape in the Pacific and is expected to sweep into the eastern Bering Sea late Saturday night into Sunday, bringing a mix of strong winds, snow, rain, and freezing rain to large portions of western and southwestern Alaska.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, confidence has increased in the storm’s overall track, which is expected to move from the Eastern Aleutians on Sunday morning toward St. Matthew Island by Monday, passing just east of the Pribilof Islands. A less likely scenario may take the center near Nunivak Island, which would increase the risk of coastal flooding and erosion.
For the Eastern Aleutians and Alaska Peninsula, forecasters expect strong southeasterly winds shifting southwesterly as the low passes overhead Sunday afternoon. The exact severity of wind impacts will depend on the storm’s final intensity and timing, with details still being refined.
Across Southwest Alaska, including the Kuskokwim Delta, Bethel area, Western Capes, and Nunivak Island vicinity, gusty southeasterly winds will accompany the storm’s leading edge. Precipitation is expected to begin as snow before transitioning to freezing rain and then rain as warmer air wraps into the system. With recent cold temperatures and existing snowpack, forecasters warn that rain falling on frozen ground could create dangerous travel conditions, including slick roads and icy surfaces.
Minor coastal flooding is possible along exposed areas, but lower tides and limited fetch may reduce overall surge impacts. Should the storm track shift westward toward Nunivak Island, coastal risks would increase.
Residents across the Aleutians, Alaska Peninsula, Kuskokwim Delta, and Pribilofs are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the system approaches.
