Fairbanks, Alaska – A winter storm watch has been issued for the Western Arctic Plains and Howard Pass as freezing rain threatens to coat the region in ice late Wednesday night through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, ice accumulations between one-tenth and one-quarter of an inch are possible across Howard Pass, Umiat, and the Delong Mountains. The heaviest icing is expected along the northern slopes of the Northwestern Brooks Range and extending into the Western Arctic Coastal Plains.
Officials warn that the ice will create slick and hazardous travel conditions, with the potential to down power lines and cause outages in isolated communities. The northern stretch of the Dalton Highway could see increasing ice coverage by Thursday, with potential impacts spreading as far east as Nuiqsut and Prudhoe Bay.
Travelers are urged to delay plans if possible. Those who must be on the road should allow extra time, use caution on bridges and elevated surfaces, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Residents are also encouraged to charge devices and secure backup heat sources in case of power loss.
The winter storm watch remains in effect through Thursday evening, with additional advisories likely as confidence in ice totals grows.
