Winter Weather Advisory Brings Early Snow to Interior Alaska
A winter weather advisory has been issued for portions of interior Alaska, and forecasters are warning that as much as 9 inches of snow could fall between Thursday afternoon and Friday evening. The National Weather Service in Fairbanks put this advisory in place as an early season storm makes its way across the region. Communities around the White Mountains, the high terrain south of the Yukon River, and the Chatanika River Valley are expected to be hit the hardest. Major roads, including stretches of the Steese and Elliott highways, fall under this advisory, and drivers are being told to prepare for very slippery travel conditions.
This storm is arriving ahead of schedule. Typically, the Fairbanks area records its first inch of snow closer to mid-October, but this year the first measurable snowfall came nearly two weeks early. While the initial inch that fell last weekend may not stick around, the system moving in now looks much stronger. The weather service explained that a weaker wave of snow is expected late Wednesday night before the main storm ramps up on Thursday evening and continues into Friday morning. At higher elevations, totals closer to the 9-inch mark are anticipated, while lower areas may see a mix of snow and rain.
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Hazardous travel conditions are almost certain. The NWS advisory, issued at 4:44 a.m. Wednesday, specifically warns that the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes could be dangerous. Reduced visibility, slick road surfaces, and ice on sidewalks and stairs are all expected. Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra time for travel, and check updated road conditions by calling 511. Residents are also being reminded to take care when walking outdoors since icy surfaces could lead to falls and injuries.
Officials have pointed out that this kind of storm, though not unusual for the season, serves as a reminder that Alaska is already heading into its colder months. Communities and travelers are encouraged to make early preparations—whether that means switching to winter tires, stocking up on emergency supplies, or simply dressing for icy conditions.
On social media, NWS Fairbanks emphasized the seriousness of the snowfall, especially for the White Mountains and elevated areas such as Steese and Eagle Summits. The office also reminded people that winter is arriving a bit earlier than average this year. In their words, “Keep an eye on the horizon, because winter is coming.”
The advisory remains in effect from Thursday afternoon until Friday night, but updates will continue as the storm develops. For now, the message from forecasters is clear: expect snow, expect icy roads and sidewalks, and plan for extra caution. Even though Alaskans are no strangers to harsh winter weather, the first significant storm of the season always serves as an important wake-up call.
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