A winter storm warning and a heat advisory were in place simultaneously this week in Alaska as the northern part of the state is expecting snow and ice and the Inside Passage battles abnormally warm temperatures.
Why It Matters
The end of summer has contrasting weather across the United States, with the Pacific Northwest battling dangerously hot temperatures, while a cold front brings more fall-like weather to much of the rest of the country.
Meanwhile, parts of northern Alaska are under a winter weather advisory and winter storm warning as some of the first snows of the season begin, whereas the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska is experiencing temperatures in the 80s. In Southwest Alaska, an atmospheric river is bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
What To Know
For the winter storm warning, National Weather Service (NWS) Fairbanks meteorologists warned of “wintry precipitation” including an icy glaze of .1 inches along Anaktuvuk Pass and the north side of the Brooks Range along the Dalton Highway Corridor. Earlier in the week, another forecast warned of up to 2 inches of snow, although meteorologists said there is “substantial” uncertainty in storm totals and where the worst of the storm will hit.
“Plan on slippery road conditions,” the winter storm warning said. “The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning and evening commutes.”
The winter storm warning is in place through early Thursday morning. NWS meteorologist Jason Laney told Newsweek that the Fairbanks office typically issues its first winter storm warning in late August.
Meanwhile, NWS meteorologists in Juneau were urging people to stay out of the sun and warning them about heat-related illnesses as temperatures were expected to reach around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The heat advisory is in place for Prince of Wales Island, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, City of Hyder, and Annette Island. It takes effect at noon on Thursday and remains in effect until 7 p.m. that evening.
“Individuals not accustomed to these unusually hot temperatures for this region may experience heat related illnesses,” the advisory said.
People in the impacted areas were urged to drink plenty of fluids and never leave young children or pets unattended in vehicles. Sunscreen was recommended, as were light, loose-fitting clothes. People were urged to limit strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or late evening hours.
“Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” the advisory said.
What People Are Saying
NWS Fairbanks, in a winter storm warning: “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.”
NWS Juneau, in a heat advisory: “Close curtains during the daytime to reduce sun insulation into the home and open windows at night to allow the home to cool off. Utilize fans or community buildings with air conditioning.”
What Happens Next
The winter storm warning and the heat advisory are both set to expire on Thursday. Residents in the affected areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts.
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