Winter storm brings heavy snowfall to Northern Susitna Valley

After a November that was colder and drier than usual, the Northern Susitna Valley has experienced heavy snowfall and warmer temperatures in recent days. According to the National Weather Service forecast office in Anchorage, snow levels in the Northern Valley are expected to range up to thirty inches by the time the current winter storm moves through.  As of Monday afternoon, more than a foot of snow had fallen in Downtown Talkeetna.

On Sunday evening, Matanuska Electric Association stated that the combination of potential high winds and heavy snow could result in power outages.  MEA states that it is prepared to address any outages, but advises members that it takes an average of four hours to resolve a weather-related outage. As of Monday afternoon, there were no major power outages due to the storm.

The heavy snowfall also makes road travel more hazardous.  The National Weather Service advises checking the forecast and road conditions before traveling and bringing along an emergency supply kit. According to the Alaska Department of Transportation, an emergency kit should include:  a flashlight with batteries, a cell phone and charger, non-perishable food, water, warm gloves and a hat, an ice scraper, flares, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a shovel, and blankets.

Current road conditions can be checked by calling 5-1-1 or visiting 511.alaska.gov.  As of Monday afternoon, the Winter Storm Warning is set to expire at 5:00 am on Tuesday.