Fairbanks, AK – Travelers and residents across the Eastern Alaska Range and Upper Tanana Valley are facing a significant multi-day winter surge as a powerful storm system prepares to dump up to 18 inches of snow starting Sunday afternoon. The heaviest impacts are expected to center on high-elevation passes and critical transit corridors, including the Parks, Richardson, and Alaska Highways, where driving conditions are expected to become very difficult or nearly impossible.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect through Tuesday afternoon for the Northern Denali Borough and the Upper Tanana Valley. Meteorologists report that while lower elevations may see a rain and snow mix during the warmer afternoon hours, areas above 1500 feet are likely to see snowfall totals exceeding a foot. Specifically, the stretch of the Alaska Highway between Delta Junction and Tok is at risk for localized accumulations surpassing 12 inches, accompanied by wind gusts reaching 35 mph.
The storm is expected to create hazardous conditions for the Richardson Highway from Milepost 224 to 259 and the Parks Highway through Denali National Park. The Alaska Department of Transportation warns that blowing snow and rapidly accumulating drifts could lead to lane closures and significantly reduced visibility. Areas including Healy, Anderson, and Tok are advised to prepare for potential infrastructure strain and slick road surfaces that may persist well into Tuesday night.
Residents in the watch area should take Saturday to winterize vehicles, restock emergency kits, and ensure they have adequate heating fuel. If travel is necessary starting Sunday, notify others of your route and carry extra blankets, food, and water in your vehicle. Officials will continue to monitor the storm’s trajectory, and upgrades to Winter Storm Warnings are possible as the system moves closer. The threat of heavy precipitation and gusty winds remains a primary concern through Tuesday afternoon.
