Alaska Braces for Heavy Snow and 65 mph Winds
Alaska Braces for Heavy Snow and 65 mph Winds
US · Published Oct 19, 2026
• A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for Alaska's Interior, including Fairbanks, with heavy snow and strong winds expected from Monday, October 19, through Thursday, October 21,
• According to the National Weather Service (NWS), areas above 2,500 feet in the eastern Alaska Range could see 18 to 30 inches of snow, while lower elevations may receive 12 to 18 inches. Wind speeds are forecast to reach up to 65 mph in some areas, creating hazardous conditions. The Richardson Highway, particularly between Miles Post 202 and 259, is expected to experience the heaviest snowfall and strong winds. Additional snowfall is predicted for the Fairbanks North Star Borough, Nenana, Denali Borough, Yukon Flats, Delta Junction, and surrounding areas, with accumulations ranging from 4 to 18 inches depending on the location.

Impact & Risks

The storm is expected to cause significant disruptions, particularly for travelers. The NWS has warned that travel could become 'very difficult to impossible' due to heavy snow and reduced visibility. The Richardson Highway and other affected areas may experience blowing snow, further complicating driving conditions. The wind advisory, in effect from 4 a.m. ET Monday to 2 a.m. ET Tuesday, predicts south winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph. These conditions could lead to power outages and structural damage in some areas. Residents in the affected regions should prepare for potential disruptions and hazardous conditions.

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