Kotzebue, Alaska – Whiteout conditions along the Baldwin Peninsula are making travel nearly impossible early Wednesday as 60 mph wind gusts whip falling and drifting snow across coastal roads and open tundra through 3 a.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect for the Baldwin Peninsula, including Kotzebue, as well as Kivalina and Red Dog Dock. Snow totals between 4 and 9 inches are expected, with the heaviest bands focused along the Baldwin Peninsula. Powerful winds gusting up to 60 mph are driving widespread blowing snow and sharply reducing visibility, especially along exposed coastal stretches.
Conditions along the coastline are expected to remain the most severe, where sustained winds and falling snow will continue to create prolonged whiteouts. Air travel and local snowmachine routes may also be affected as visibility drops rapidly in open areas. Gusty winds could cause minor structural strain and scattered utility issues.
Officials urge residents to restrict travel to emergencies only. If travel cannot be avoided, carry a winter survival kit and remain with your vehicle if stranded. The warning stays in effect until 3 a.m. Thursday, and additional advisories could be issued if winds remain strong into Thursday morning.
