Fairbanks, Alaska – Dangerous winter travel conditions are expected to develop across northern Alaska beginning Wednesday as strong winds and blowing snow move into the Arctic Coast and Brooks Range, sharply reducing visibility and creating hazardous road conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Eastern Beaufort Sea Coast from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon, where wind gusts could reach 50 mph. Blowing and falling snow may reduce visibility to below one-quarter mile at times, especially in exposed coastal areas and open terrain.
Farther south, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the Central Arctic Plains, Central Beaufort Sea Coast, and Central Brooks Range, including the Dalton Highway from Atigun Pass north to the Arctic Coast. Light snow combined with wind gusts up to 35 mph could lower visibility to around one-half mile from Wednesday morning into Thursday morning, making travel difficult for high-profile vehicles and truck traffic.
Drivers along the Dalton Highway should prepare for slippery surfaces, sudden whiteout conditions, and rapidly changing visibility. Emergency officials recommend delaying non-essential travel, carrying winter survival gear, and monitoring road conditions closely.
Wind and snow impacts are expected to persist into Thursday before gradually easing. Additional advisories or upgrades remain possible as conditions evolve across northern Alaska.
