Saturday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning Alaska and happy Saturday. Winter is ringing the bells a little louder today. While some areas are waking up to sunshine, cold temperatures, slick roads, and increasing winds are setting the tone for travel. Pavement remains cold across Southcentral, which means ice is slow to loosen its grip even when the sky looks friendly.
👉🏿 The bigger concern comes later. High Wind Warnings are posted for Saturday night into Sunday for parts of the Mat Su Valley and mountain passes. If you have weekend travel plans, today is the day to think ahead. Always check 511.alaska.gov before heading out and give yourself plenty of time.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Overnight refreeze leaves bridges and shaded stretches slick. Slow down early. |
| Afternoon | Highs near the teens | Sunshine helps visibility but pavement stays cold. Watch for drifting snow in open areas. |
| Evening | Falling toward zero | Winds begin increasing. Refreeze after dark makes conditions slippery again. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Low to mid teens | Black ice and packed snow linger on trestles and curves. Take it slow. |
| Afternoon | Mid teens | Cold pavement remains slick. Keep a safe following distance. |
| Evening | Near or below single digits | Quick refreeze after sunset. Expect icy patches to spread. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold pockets near the Arm hold ice longer. Stay alert through curves. |
| Afternoon | Highs in the low teens | Winds and cold keep traction tricky despite sunshine. |
| Evening | Falling after dark | Icy spots likely. Reduce speed and watch for blowing snow. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Morning travel is slickest. Bridges freeze early. |
| Afternoon | Highs near the teens | Packed snow and ice mix together. Expect changing traction. |
| Evening | Near or below zero | Refreeze sets in fast. Winter tires and patience are key. |
💨 Cold, Wind and High Wind Warnings
Cold Arctic air remains in place across Southcentral Alaska, keeping temperatures well below freezing. Winds are generally lighter during the day today, but strong northeast winds are expected to ramp up tonight, especially through the Mat Su Valley and nearby passes.
These winds may cause blowing snow, reduced visibility, and rapidly changing road conditions, even where snowfall is minimal. Roads that appear dry may still be slick due to cold pavement temperatures.
⚠️ Saturday Night Into Sunday Travel Advisory
Travel conditions are expected to worsen Saturday night and continue into Sunday as strong winds move into the region.
- High Wind Warnings are in effect for the Lower Matanuska Valley and mountain passes, including Thompson Pass
- Wind gusts may reach 70 to 75 mph in the most exposed areas
- Blowing snow and sudden visibility drops are likely
- Travel may become difficult or hazardous, especially for high profile vehicles
Memaw’s advice:
If your plans can wait, consider delaying travel until winds ease. If you must travel, check 511.alaska.gov before you go, secure loose items, dress for extreme cold, and let someone know your route.
❄️ Memaw’s Holiday Road Wisdom
Memaw says the bells may be jingling, but winter is still serious business. If your plans can wait, consider delaying travel until winds ease. If you must head out, preparation makes all the difference.
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip
- Bridges, trestles, and shaded curves refreeze first
- Slow down early in the morning and again after sunset
- Leave extra space between vehicles
- Secure loose items and dress for extreme cold
- Keep winter gear in the car, even for short drives
- Let someone know your route before you go
💅 Memaw’s rule of the road is simple. Slow, steady, and prepared gets you home safe and cozy.
Alaska Headline Living ©️
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