A winter storm warning in Alaska is bringing heavy snowfall, reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions to parts of the state, with up to 15 inches of snow forecast in the Northern Susitna Valley.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Anchorage office issued the warning ahead of the storm, identifying the Parks Highway corridor through Broad Pass as a major concern for motorists. The warning runs from Thursday afternoon, October 29, through Friday afternoon, October 30, 2026. Men’s Journal+1
The forecast calls for snowfall totals between 7 and 15 inches, with visibility potentially falling to a quarter mile or less. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight and into Friday morning.
Where Is the Alaska Winter Storm Warning in Effect?
The warning covers the Northern Susitna Valley in Alaska, including Chulitna, Broad Pass and the Denali Highway.
The Parks Highway is particularly important because it connects Anchorage with Fairbanks. The stretch passing through Broad Pass is expected to experience difficult driving conditions as snow accumulates and visibility drops.
The NWS warned that rapidly accumulating snow could make travel very difficult, especially during periods of heavier snowfall. Men’s Journal+1
NWS Fairbanks Issues Separate Winter Weather Advisories
Although the 15-inch forecast comes from NWS Anchorage, the National Weather Service Fairbanks office has also issued separate winter weather advisories for parts of Alaska.
As of its October 29 update, the Fairbanks office reported the following snowfall expectations:
| Area | Expected snowfall |
|---|---|
| Southern Denali Borough | 4–8 inches |
| Eastern Alaska Range south of Trims Camp | 6–12 inches |
The Southern Denali Borough advisory includes Cantwell and a section of the Parks Highway. The Eastern Alaska Range advisory covers the Richardson Highway corridor near Trims Camp. National Weather Service
This distinction is important for anyone searching for the NWS Fairbanks winter storm warning: the Fairbanks office’s latest notices identify these areas under winter weather advisories, not the 15-inch winter storm warning issued by Anchorage.
Heavy Snow Could Make Driving Dangerous
The biggest concern for motorists is reduced visibility and rapidly changing road conditions. The Anchorage forecast warns that visibility could fall to one-quarter mile or less during periods of heavy snowfall.
Snowfall could also become wet and heavy if temperatures rise above freezing. The forecast indicates that snow may mix with or change to rain Friday afternoon, creating additional challenges for drivers. Men’s Journal+1
Drivers Urged to Check Alaska Road Conditions
Officials recommend checking road conditions before traveling through affected areas. Drivers can use the Alaska Department of Transportation’s online road information service or call 511 for current updates.
Motorists should also carry emergency supplies, including food, drinking water, a flashlight and warm clothing. Drivers following snowplows should maintain a distance of at least 200 feet to avoid reduced visibility from blowing snow. Men’s Journal+1
