Skagway, AK – A new round of winter weather is set to impact the northern Panhandle beginning Wednesday afternoon, bringing heavy, wet snow and difficult travel conditions to portions of the Klondike Highway.
According to the National Weather Service in Juneau, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from NOON Wednesday to 6 AM Thursday, with up to 6 inches of snow expected along the Klondike Highway north of milepost 5. Visibility may drop to one mile or less at times, especially during the heaviest snow.
Forecasters say a strong low-pressure system will move up the Panhandle Tuesday night, pulling abundant moisture into the region. Snow is expected to begin early Wednesday, with the heaviest snowfall developing between 9 AM and 3 PM, when rates of 0.5 to 0.75 inches per hour are possible. Conditions will be most hazardous west of Haines near Haines Customs and north of Skagway toward White Pass.
According to the NWS, snow ratios have lowered, meaning denser and wetter snow will make up most of the accumulation. This type of snow can quickly compact on roadways and reduce traction, especially on steep or winding stretches of the highway.
Southerly winds will increase early Thursday, with gusts up to 25 mph near White Pass. That could create pockets of drifting snow and brief whiteout-like conditions during the early morning hours.
Snow will continue to affect higher elevations along the Klondike Highway into Thursday before gradually tapering. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and prepare vehicles for winter conditions.
