Fairbanks, AK – Interior Alaska residents should brace for a fast-moving winter system this weekend, with a Winter Storm Watch now in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. The National Weather Service warns that heavy snow may create hazardous driving conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Fairbanks office, the watch covers parts of the Southern Yukon Flats, White Mountains, Fortymile Country, Upper Chena River Valley, and the Chatanika River Valley. Forecasters say 6 to 12 inches of snow are possible, with the highest totals expected from Chatanika northeast toward the White Mountains, including key summit areas along the Steese and Elliott Highways.
The storm is expected to arrive Friday afternoon, posing a risk to the Friday evening commute across Interior Alaska. Roads may quickly become slick, especially along higher-elevation corridors such as the Steese Highway, Dalton Highway (MP 0–38), and nearby communities including Livengood, Circle, Eagle Summit, Chena Hot Springs, Fort Yukon, and Central.
NWS officials urge residents to monitor forecast updates and prepare for challenging travel conditions. Those who must travel are advised to use extreme caution and carry a winter storm emergency kit. Recommended supplies include blankets, extra clothing, tire chains, a flashlight, shovel, water, and a first aid kit in the event of a roadside emergency or becoming stranded.
The watch remains in effect through Sunday morning, with forecasters expected to refine snowfall totals as the system approaches.
