By Matthew Robinson
Copyright newsweek
A winter weather advisory has been issued for parts of Alaska on Wednesday, with up to eight inches of snow forecast to fall.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that the snowfall will be accompanied with gusty winds of up to 50 mph.
The agency has also issued freeze warnings and frost advisories for parts of Wyoming and Colorado.
Why It Matters
The wintry conditions may create slippery and dangerous road conditions, especially when combined with high winds and blowing snow.
“Travel could be very difficult,” the NWS said. “Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”
Snow covering roads in Alaska this week. (NWS Fairbanks)
What To Know
In Alaska, the winter weather advisory has been issued until 9 a.m. AKDT for the eastern Alaska Range around Trims Camp, south-east of Fairbanks.
“Snow and gusty winds. Storm total accumulations up to around 8 inches at Isabel Pass. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. Areas of blowing snow is possible overnight tonight,” the NWS said.
In Wyoming, a freeze warning has been issued until 10 a.m. in parts, with temperatures set to plummet to lows of 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Areas set to be impacted include Carbon County, the north Snowy Range foothills, the Shirley Basin, the upper North Platte River Basin, and Laramie Valley.
Meanwhile in Colorado, a frost advisory has been issued for the San Luis Valley until 8 a.m. on Wednesday, and another between 3 and 8 a.m. on Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to plummet to between 32 and 35F, with some areas experiencing 30F.
What People Are Saying
The NWS said: “Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.” It added: “Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.”
The NWS forecast office in Fairbanks, Alaska, wrote on X: “Heavy snow on the Richardson Hwy south of Delta Junction will continue through tonight. Up to 8” of snow is expected, with a chance for up to a foot. Winter travel conditions exist, so allow for extra time.
“Areas around Fairbanks have seen their first snow of the season, with some locations getting decent accumulations. Most roads haven’t had any snow, some has been seen along the Parks/Richardson Hwy, with highest accumulation in the AK Range. Stay safe while traveling!”
What Happens Next
The winter weather advisory and freeze warnings are currently set to remain in force until Wednesday morning.
Regular updates regarding snow and temperature conditions are published throughout the day on the NWS’s website.
