First Major Snowfall Hits Southcentral Alaska
The first significant snowfall of the winter season arrived Thursday afternoon in Anchorage and across Southcentral Alaska. The sudden snow tested both drivers and pedestrians, who faced slippery roads and covered walkways.
Snowfall Measurements and Conditions
Chief Meteorologist Melissa Frey measured almost four inches of snow in midtown Anchorage by 5 p.m. Winter weather advisories covered the Kenai Peninsula and Thompson Pass, forecasting between 4 and 8 inches in Kenai and up to 9 inches in Thompson Pass.
Further south, Seward was expected to receive a few inches of snow, with areas just north projected to see between 5 and 10 inches. Portage and Whittier were also forecasted to accumulate nearly half a foot of snow.
Impact on Travel
Challenging driving conditions were reported along the Glenn Highway, which was closed for several hours Thursday afternoon due to multiple crashes blocking traffic.
"As measured by Chief Meteorologist Melissa Frey at 5 p.m., the new snowfall was approaching four inches in midtown Anchorage."
Weather Alerts
- Kenai Peninsula: 4–8 inches expected
- Thompson Pass: up to 9 inches expected
- North of Seward: 5–10 inches forecasted
- Portage and Whittier: nearly 6 inches possible
Residents were urged to drive cautiously and monitor ongoing weather advisories.
Author’s Summary: Southcentral Alaska experienced its first major snowfall of the season on Thursday, bringing several inches of accumulation and temporary highway closures across the region.