Kenai, Alaska – Snow and wind are already disrupting travel across the western Kenai Peninsula early Friday, with up to 10 inches of accumulation expected before conditions ease later tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. AKST Friday for communities across the southwest and northwest Kenai Peninsula, including Kenai, Homer, Soldotna, Nikiski, Anchor Point, Ninilchik, Sterling, and Clam Gulch.
The storm is expected to drop 4 to 10 inches of snow, with the heaviest totals from Ninilchik north to Nikiski. Winds could gust to 35 mph, producing blowing snow that reduces visibility to one-half mile or less at times.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, especially on bridges and overpasses, where snow and wind can create slick surfaces. The worst travel impacts are likely during the Friday morning and evening commutes, when bursts of heavier snow combine with gusty winds.
Forecasters say a brief lull in snowfall may occur late Friday morning through the afternoon before another round of snow showers develops Friday evening as winds shift from north to south. Communities along Kachemak Bay, including Homer, could see lingering snow and wind into Saturday.
Drivers are urged to slow down, carry emergency supplies, and check Alaska 511 road conditions before traveling. Additional advisories remain possible if snowfall rates intensify through the evening.
