Sitka, AK – Snow will begin falling across parts of Southeast Alaska before sunrise Wednesday, bringing several inches of accumulation and potentially slick travel conditions across coastal communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Juneau, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday for Prince of Wales Island, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, and Annette Island, including Craig, Klawock, Hydaburg, Thorne Bay, Ketchikan, and Metlakatla. Snowfall totals in these areas are expected to reach 2 to 4 inches.
A separate advisory covers the City and Borough of Sitka from 4 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday, where snow accumulations could reach up to 6 inches during scattered but occasionally heavier snow showers.
Roads may become snow-covered at times, particularly during the morning commute. Local officials advise drivers to reduce speed and allow extra travel time as conditions change quickly with passing snow bands.
Because the snow showers will be scattered, snowfall totals could vary significantly across short distances, with some communities seeing heavier bursts than others.
Drivers are encouraged to check Alaska’s 511 road conditions system before traveling and use caution on untreated roads and bridges. Snow showers may gradually taper off late Wednesday afternoon as the weather system moves away from the region.
