Seward Highway Braces for Up to a Foot of Snow in Turnagain Pass
Winter weather is set to impact Turnagain Pass this week as heavy snowfall is forecasted. The Seward Highway corridor, located in the northern Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, may experience challenging driving conditions.
Heavy Snow Expected in Turnagain Pass
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a special weather statement warning of significant snowfall on Thursday. Forecasts indicate that Turnagain Pass and Moose Pass could receive up to 12 inches of snow.
Conditions Leading to Snow Accumulation
- Temperatures are anticipated to drop into the low 20s on Wednesday night.
- Cold ground conditions will likely allow for snow accumulation along the highway.
- Pre-existing icy road conditions may pose additional hazards for drivers.
Snow accumulation is expected to taper off by Friday morning. Additionally, Thompson Pass near Valdez will see increasing snowfall intensity from late Wednesday into Thursday.
Advisories and Safety Warnings
A winter weather advisory is in effect for Thompson Pass due to predicted blowing snow. The NWS has warned that visibility may drop to as low as half a mile on Thursday.
Impact on Anchorage and Avalanche Warnings
Forecasts for Anchorage predict light snowfall, with anticipated accumulations varying between less than an inch in western areas and 2 to 4 inches in higher elevations.
- Avalanche forecasters in Chugach National Forest report an “active glide avalanche cycle.”
- Friends of the Chugach Avalanche Center have advised cautious assessment of conditions in steeper terrains.
Recent avalanches have occurred, including one over the weekend on Tincan Peak. Skiers involved were able to ride away, but caution is strongly recommended.
Drivers and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to stay informed and prepared as winter weather conditions evolve in the area.
