Alaska is currently experiencing a significant cold snap, with temperatures plunging well below zero across various regions. The National Weather Service has issued warnings, advising residents to take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of extreme cold.
Anchorage: Bitter Cold with Clear Skies
As of Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Anchorage is under partly cloudy skies with a temperature of 5°F (-15°C). The forecast for the week indicates continued cold conditions:
- Tuesday, February 4: Sunshine, but cold, with a high of 19°F (-7°C) and a low of 11°F (-12°C).
- Wednesday, February 5: Mostly sunny, high of 22°F (-6°C), low of 14°F (-10°C).
- Thursday, February 6: Some sun, high of 25°F (-4°C), low of 14°F (-10°C).
- Friday, February 7: Mostly sunny, high of 25°F (-4°C), low of 11°F (-12°C).
- Saturday, February 8: Cold with sunshine and some clouds, high of 22°F (-6°C), low of 16°F (-9°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Mostly sunny, high of 25°F (-4°C), low of 20°F (-6°C).
- Monday, February 10: Mostly sunny, high of 28°F (-2°C), low of 21°F (-6°C).
Fairbanks: Extreme Cold with Dangerous Wind Chills
In Fairbanks, the situation is even more severe. The current temperature is -1°F (-18°C) under partly cloudy skies. The upcoming forecast is as follows:
- Tuesday, February 4: Mostly cloudy, high of 15°F (-10°C), low of 10°F (-12°C).
- Wednesday, February 5: Cloudy, high of 21°F (-6°C), low of 12°F (-11°C).
- Thursday, February 6: A morning flurry; otherwise, periods of clouds and sun, high of 18°F (-8°C), low plunging to -17°F (-27°C).
- Friday, February 7: Mostly sunny and very cold, high of -2°F (-19°C), low of -23°F (-30°C).
- Saturday, February 8: Very cold with sunshine, high of -2°F (-19°C), low of -17°F (-27°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Mostly sunny and not as cold, high of 9°F (-13°C), low of -6°F (-21°C).
- Monday, February 10: Rather cloudy, high of 14°F (-10°C), low of -8°F (-22°C).
Juneau: Chilly with Clear Conditions
Juneau is experiencing clear skies with a current temperature of 23°F (-5°C). The forecast includes:
- Tuesday, February 4: Chilly with plenty of sunshine, high of 31°F (-1°C), low of 19°F (-7°C).
- Wednesday, February 5: Plenty of sunshine, high of 33°F (1°C), low of 21°F (-6°C).
- Thursday, February 6: Chilly with periods of clouds and sun, high of 30°F (-1°C), low of 13°F (-10°C).
- Friday, February 7: Mostly cloudy and chilly; snow and flurries at times in the afternoon, high of 28°F (-2°C), low of 21°F (-6°C).
- Saturday, February 8: Cold with decreasing clouds, high of 26°F (-4°C), low of 12°F (-11°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Chilly with plenty of sun, high of 30°F (-1°C), low of 18°F (-8°C).
- Monday, February 10: Plenty of sun, high of 31°F (0°C), low of 19°F (-7°C).
Safety Precautions for Residents
Given the severity of the cold, residents across Alaska are urged to take the following precautions:
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Prolonged exposure to these temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. If you must go outside, dress in multiple layers, cover exposed skin, and limit the time spent outdoors.
- Protect Pets: Ensure pets are brought indoors and have access to warm shelter and water. Pets are susceptible to cold-related injuries just like humans.
- Monitor Heating Systems: With heating systems running continuously, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Ensure that heating systems are functioning properly and that carbon monoxide detectors are installed and operational.
- Vehicle Preparedness: Cold temperatures can affect vehicle performance. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing, and carry an emergency kit that includes blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.
- Stay Informed: Continuously monitor local weather updates and heed any additional warnings or advisories issued by authorities.
Alaska’s current cold snap presents significant challenges and potential dangers. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and prioritize safety during this period of extreme cold.