Skagway, Alaska – Dangerous winter travel conditions could return to the Klondike Highway this week as a powerful storm system threatens heavy snow and damaging winds near White Pass beginning Tuesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Juneau, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Municipality of Skagway from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Forecasters warn that snow totals could reach up to 18 inches above 2,500 feet, with wind gusts potentially reaching 60 mph along exposed ridges and passes.
The greatest impacts are expected along the Klondike Highway from roughly mile point 10 to White Pass, where blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions could make travel very difficult or impossible. Officials strongly discourage travel through the pass during the height of the storm, citing the risk of road closures, stranded vehicles, and falling trees due to high winds.
Snow levels are expected to hover between 2,000 and 2,500 feet, meaning Skagway itself is likely to see mostly rain, while higher elevations rapidly deteriorate. Truckers, cross-border travelers, and anyone planning to use the Klondike Highway are urged to adjust plans now.
The storm is expected to taper by Wednesday morning, but conditions will be closely monitored. The Winter Storm Watch may be upgraded as confidence increases, and additional advisories could be issued as the event approaches.
