Alaska — The state is slipping into a deep winter pattern as heavy snow and freezing temperatures return this weekend. Two active Winter Weather Advisories — one for the Kenai Peninsula and another for the Chatanika and Upper Chena River Valleys — will make travel difficult from Friday through Sunday.
In southern Kachemak Bay and the southwest Kenai Peninsula, snow continues through Saturday morning, delivering 4 to 10 inches along higher elevations near Dimond Ridge, Anchor Point, and Nikolaevsk. Gusty winds up to 35 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, especially near Jakolof Bay Road. Drivers should prepare for icy transitions as wet pavement freezes and snow piles up.
Farther north, around Fairbanks and the Upper Chena River Valley, another 4 to 7 inches of snow will accumulate through Sunday midday, with the heaviest totals in the hills east of Chena Hot Springs Road. Roads across Haystack, the Steese Highway, and Elliott Highway are expected to become slick and snow-packed.
Forecasters warn that both systems signal a broader cold trend setting in across Alaska, with early signs of continued snow and subzero temperatures moving toward Thanksgiving week. Residents should limit nonessential travel, stock winter supplies, and check 511.alaska.gov for live road updates.
