Winter Storm Watch Issued for Anchorage and Kenai Peninsula

Holding just 0.9 inches of snow for the season so far, Anchorage faces its first major winter storm as a Winter Storm Watch takes effect from Saturday night through Sunday night.

Snow is likely to fall across Southcentral Alaska from Saturday night through Sunday, moving east to west across the region, according to Alaska’s News Source. Early model trends show 1 to 4 inches of snow accumulating across Anchorage. Higher elevations and areas near Portage could see close to a foot of snow, including through Turnagain Pass.

Western Kenai areas have the potential for higher snowfall totals than Anchorage as a weather band sets up and stalls across parts of Southcentral. Meanwhile, the current storm track keeps most precipitation south of Palmer and Wasilla, though some light snow remains possible.

Temperatures in Anchorage will start in the mid-20s Sunday morning and climb near freezing late in the day, with warmer weather expected on Monday. Anchorage’s current seasonal total sits more than 9 inches below normal and trails last year’s pace.

Forecasters note that uncertainty remains regarding the exact storm track, timing, and the transition point from snow to rain, which could limit overall accumulation. Much of Saturday will remain dry for Anchorage and the Western Kenai Peninsula, while Girdwood, Turnagain Arm, Portage, and the Eastern Kenai will see snow begin by Saturday afternoon and evening.

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Across the gulf coast, wind advisories and heavy rain will build into Southeast into early next week. Winds up to 55 mph are possible for Annette Island and Ketchikan from Sunday morning through Monday morning, bringing risks of downed tree limbs and power outages.

Light snow will move into the Interior to close out the week, bringing a few inches while temperatures remain relatively warm with highs near 20 degrees and overnight lows in the single digits and teens. Western Alaska will see colder weather and light snow, while blizzard conditions persist over the Slope with gusty winds, blowing snow, and reduced visibility.