Blizzard Warning Issued for St. Lawrence Island; Wind Gusts Up to 60 MPH Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has issued a Blizzard Warning for St. Lawrence Island. The alert is effective immediately and will remain in place until 6:00 AM AKST on Thursday, February 12.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically identifies Gambell as a primary area of concern. While conditions in Savoonga are expected to be better than those in Gambell, residents there should still anticipate periods of reduced visibility due to blowing snow.

What You Should Do

Travel may be very difficult during this period. The National Weather Service advises residents to slow down and use caution while traveling. Individuals should prepare for hazardous conditions and significantly reduced visibility.

Expected Conditions

• Snow Accumulation: Additional snow totals between 1 and 3 inches are expected.
• Wind Speeds: Winds are forecast to gust as high as 60 mph.
• Visibility: Visibility could be reduced to 1/2 mile or less at times. In areas of falling and blowing snow, visibility may drop to 1/4 mile or less.

Timeline

The Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 6:00 AM AKST Thursday. The most severe conditions are expected at Gambell from mid-day Wednesday through the afternoon as winds shift to the north and strengthen. Conditions across St. Lawrence Island are expected to improve late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning as winds begin to weaken.