Anchorage, Alaska – A widespread Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect across much of Southcentral Alaska and the Copper Valley, with snow, freezing rain, heavy rain and strong winds expected to create hazardous travel conditions through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, advisories are in place for Anchorage, Eagle River, the Matanuska and Susitna valleys, the Kenai Peninsula, Turnagain Pass, Hatcher Pass, and the Copper Valley, including communities such as Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer, Soldotna, Homer, Kenai, Glennallen and McCarthy.
Forecasters say mixed precipitation will develop beginning Thursday afternoon and evening as a warm and wet system moves into the region. Snow accumulations of 1 to 6 inches are expected across many lower elevations, with up to 8 inches in mountain areas and 8 to 12 inches at Hatcher Pass. Ice accumulations up to two-tenths of an inch are possible in several advisory areas.
Strong winds are also a concern. Southeast wind gusts up to 40 mph are forecast in the Copper Valley, while gusts up to 50 mph are possible through Anchorage, Portage and Turnagain Arm, increasing the risk of blowing snow, falling trees and power outages.
The National Weather Service warns that rain falling onto frozen or snow-covered roadways, combined with rapid refreezing Friday, will lead to icy roads, ponding, hydroplaning and reduced visibility. Travel could be very difficult, particularly during Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.
In the Kenai Peninsula and Turnagain Pass areas, heavy rain totals between 1.8 and 4.5 inches are possible, raising concerns for localized flooding before temperatures drop again.
Drivers are urged to slow down, use caution, and check road conditions at 511.alaska.gov before traveling. Advisories remain in effect through Friday afternoon or evening, depending on location.
