King Salmon, Alaska – Life-threatening cold remains locked in across western Alaska Saturday, where brutal wind chills are making outdoor exposure dangerous within minutes across the Kuskokwim Valley and Bristol Bay region.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through Saturday evening for the Lower Kuskokwim Valley, the Alaska Peninsula, Bristol Bay Borough, inland Bristol Bay, and the Lake Iliamna region. Wind chills as low as 50 degrees below zero are possible, especially across the Lower Kuskokwim Valley, creating an extreme risk for frostbite and hypothermia.
Communities including Aniak, Kalskag, Sleetmute, Crooked Creek, Koliganek, New Stuyahok, Naknek, King Salmon, Iliamna, Nondalton, Port Alsworth, and Port Heiden are experiencing prolonged bitter cold. Air temperatures are hovering between 10 and 20 below zero along the coast and dropping to 20 to 30 below zero inland. Winds gusting up to 20 mph are intensifying the cold, producing widespread, dangerous wind chills.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, cover all exposed skin, and wear insulated layers, hats, and gloves. Travelers should be prepared for rapidly developing cold-related emergencies, while communities are encouraged to check on vulnerable individuals and ensure adequate heating.
Wind chills are expected to slowly improve Saturday night into Sunday, but forecasters warn another surge of dangerous cold is possible early next week. Officials urge residents to remain alert for additional advisories as the prolonged cold pattern continues across the region.
