As the U.S. enjoys the last view days of summer, parts of Alaska is already getting a taste of winter. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Fairbanks has issued both a winter weather advisory and a winter storm warning for northern Alaska, warning drivers about slippery roads and poor visibility as snow moves into the region.
Early Snowfall in Fairbanks
In Fairbanks, weather experts have reported that parts of Alaska could experience between two to four inches of snowfall from Tuesday night up until Thursday morning. Even though this amount of snow does not seem like a lot as compared what residents are normally used to. However, this early snowfall is enough to cause harmful travelling conditions and drivers need to be prepared.
The NWS has issued warnings of decreased visibility, slippery roads and ice bridges. Local authorities are requesting drivers to be careful on the roads, drive slowly and keep emergency kits readily available in their vehicles.
A Seasonal Contrast Across the U.S.
Other parts of the country such as the Pacific Northwest is experiencing summer heatwaves while the north is bracing for snow.
As a reminder of how swiftly the seasons may change, a cold front is moving across the Midwest and Northeast, bringing with it colder, fall-like weather.
This dramatic contrast in weather highlights the unique geography of the U.S., where summer heat, autumn breezes, and early winter snow can all happen at the same time.
Winter Weather Advisory vs. Winter Storm Warning
The NWS has issued two different alerts for northern Alaska:
- Winter Weather Advisory: Advises that the snow and ice may create dangerous, but manageable travel conditions, however drivers should be extra careful while on the roads.
- Winter Storm Warning: Indicates more significant snow or ice is expected, making travel difficult or even dangerous.
Instead of seeing this as a typical storm, people in the affected regions must prepare for possibly severe conditions.
What Drivers Should Expect
The snowfall is predicted to impact highways across the northern Alaska bringing in riskier conditions overnight, when temperatures decreases, road surfaces will freeze. The biggest hazards include:
- Slippery conditions on untreated roads.
- Reduced visibility from blowing snow.
- Longer travel times for commuters, delivery drivers, and emergency services.
A Reminder to Prepare for Winter
Meteorologists mention that the early snow in Alaska, serves as a reminder that it is important to be prepared. There are many drivers who have not switched to snow tyres yet. A few recommendations for people to follow:
- Install winter tyres earlier than usual.
- Stock vehicles with blankets, flashlights, food, and water.
- Keep gas tanks at least half full to avoid fuel-line freeze.
- Plan extra time for travel until conditions stabilize.
It is important to be ready so the bigger problems can be prevented later on.
Looking Ahead
The storm is expected to die off by Thursday. This will result in clearer skies by much cooler temperatures. Experts conclude that this is just the beginning of Alaska’s winter ahead, as more snow is predicted for the upcoming weeks.
For the rest of the country, this unusual mix of heat, cool fronts, and early snow is a reminder of how varied and unpredictable U.S. weather can be.
Bottom Line
Even though there are many Americans enjoying the summer in certain parts of the country, Alaska is already moving into winter mode. As the weather conditions begin to change, it is important for residents to be prepared and be cautious on the road.
For residents, it signals the arrival of winter. For the rest of the nation, it serves as a stark reminder of how different and occasionally harsh America’s weather can be.