Winter Weather Advisory: Freezing Rain, Snow, and High Winds Forecast for Southcentral Alaska

A low-pressure system moving out of the Gulf of Alaska is bringing a messy mix of snow, gusty winds, and freezing rain to Southcentral Alaska, according to alaskapublic.org.

Winter weather advisories went into effect at 11 p.m. Monday for Anchorage, parts of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and the Kenai Peninsula.

The primary concern for Anchorage and Eagle River is ice accumulation from freezing rain. Weather service meteorologist Josh Ribail told alaskapublic.org that freezing rain is the primary threat for the city.

Lower elevations could see up to a half an inch of snow, while the Anchorage Hillside might pick up to 2 inches, according to alaskapublic.org. That snow will transition to freezing rain overnight before turning to all rain Tuesday morning, with Anchorage’s winter weather advisory expiring at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Afternoon sun reflects on an icy and slushy C Street in Midtown Anchorage on January 16, 2026. (Marc Lester / ADN) — Photo: adn.com

Travel could become hazardous during the Tuesday morning commute due to ice accumulation, adn.com reported. Meanwhile, the Kenai Peninsula and Turnagain Pass faced heavier snow forecasts of up to 10 inches, with drivers reporting white-out conditions Monday afternoon.

Wind gusts could reach up to 60 mph on southern parts of the Hillside and up to 50 mph across parts of the Matanuska Valley, according to alaskapublic.org. The Matanuska Electric Association warned of potential power outages.

The Anchorage School District stated it would monitor conditions and update families by 5:30 a.m. regarding potential delays or closures, alaskasnewssource.com reported. District officials noted that school bus routes might face delays or cancellations.

Public Works Administration crews checked storm drains and sanded slick areas on Monday. Residents can report areas needing attention by calling street maintenance dispatch at 907-343-2877, as reported by alaskapublic.org.