Alaska – Snow begins whipping sideways across western Alaska early today, with visibility collapsing quickly as powerful winds drive blizzard conditions across coastal and inland communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Fairbanks, Blizzard Warnings are now in effect across a wide stretch of western Alaska, including St. Lawrence Island, the Yukon Delta, Nome, and Kotzebue regions. Winds will intensify rapidly, with gusts reaching 55 to 65 mph while snow totals range from 4 to 12 inches depending on location .
The most severe conditions will develop first along the Yukon Delta Coast and Lower Yukon River, where blizzard conditions begin as early as late tonight and persist through Thursday afternoon. On St. Lawrence Island, including Savoonga and Gambell, winds will peak near 65 mph with heavy blowing snow continuing into Friday morning, making travel nearly impossible.
Communities across Nome, Shishmaref, and the Seward Peninsula will also see dangerous conditions by early morning. Even where snowfall totals are lower, strong winds will create whiteout conditions and drifting snow that blocks roads and reduces visibility to near zero.
Travel should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If you must travel, carry a full winter survival kit and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Blowing snow and strong winds could disorient travelers within minutes.
Conditions begin to gradually improve late Thursday into Friday as winds ease and temperatures rise slightly into the 30s, reducing blowing snow intensity.
