Anchorage, Alaska – Drivers across Southcentral Alaska could face very difficult travel early Wednesday as a fast-moving snow system drops several inches of powdery snow during the height of the morning commute, sharply reducing visibility on major roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Anchorage, Winter Weather Advisories are in effect beginning early Wednesday for Anchorage, Eagle River, the Matanuska Valley, and much of the Susitna Valley. Snow is expected to begin before dawn, with accumulations of 2 to 4 inches in Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, and Big Lake. Snowfall rates could reach one inch per hour at times, with visibility dropping to one-half mile or less in heavier bursts.
Farther north and east, including Sutton, Chickaloon, Talkeetna, and Trapper Creek, totals of 3 to 6 inches are possible through Wednesday afternoon. The light, dry nature of the snow will allow passing vehicles to loft snow back into the air, creating sudden whiteout conditions even after plows move through.
More dangerous conditions are expected at Thompson Pass, where 5 to 10 inches of snow combined with wind gusts up to 50 mph will create blowing snow and severely reduced visibility from mid-morning through Wednesday evening.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and check road conditions before heading out. Hazardous travel is expected through the morning commute, with lingering impacts into the afternoon across the Mat-Su and mountain passes.
