by Anchorage, AL – Alaska is experiencing a rare weather clash this week, with a winter storm warning issued for the northern region while a heat advisory was posted in the southeast. Snow, ice, and freezing rain are expected up north, while the Inside Passage faces unusually hot summer-like conditions.
Why This Matters Nationally
The U.S. is seeing sharp contrasts in late-summer weather. While the Pacific Northwest is battling extreme heat, much of the country is cooling under a fall-like front. In Alaska, the unusual overlap of winter and summer weather conditions highlights the state’s unique climate extremes.
Details of the Winter Storm Warning
The National Weather Service (NWS) Fairbanks warned of wintry precipitation, including a glaze of ice up to 0.1 inches in Anaktuvuk Pass and along the Dalton Highway Corridor near the Brooks Range. Forecasts earlier in the week called for up to 2 inches of snow, though meteorologists said snowfall totals remain uncertain.
“Plan on slippery road conditions,” the warning stated, cautioning that hazardous travel could affect Wednesday commutes. The warning remains in effect until early Thursday morning.
“Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” the advisory said.
Heat Advisory in Southeast Alaska
At the same time, NWS Juneau issued a heat advisory for Prince of Wales Island, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, City of Hyder, and Annette Island. Temperatures are expected to rise to about 80 degrees, unusually high for the region.
Residents were urged to stay hydrated, avoid leaving children and pets in vehicles, wear sunscreen, and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours.
Looking Ahead
Both the winter storm warning and heat advisory are set to expire Thursday. Officials continue to urge residents to monitor local forecasts and take safety precautions as Alaska faces one of the most unusual weather juxtapositions of the season.
