Sunday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning Alaska and happy Sunday. Winter is still holding the reins today with dangerous cold, strong winds in parts of Southcentral, and slick road conditions continuing to shape travel. Arctic air remains firmly in place, and even where skies look clear, pavement temperatures stay stubbornly cold.
High Wind Warnings continue across the Lower Matanuska Valley and nearby passes, while breezy to gusty conditions linger along exposed highways. Blowing snow and sudden visibility drops remain possible, especially in open areas. If you have flexibility in your plans, today is a good day to move slow or stay put. Always check 511.alaska.gov before heading out.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Below zero to low single digits | Overnight refreeze combined with strong winds means slick pavement and drifting snow. Slow down early. |
| Afternoon | Near zero to single digits | Winds remain strong in spots. Watch for blowing snow across open stretches. |
| Evening | Falling back below zero | Refreeze intensifies after dark. Visibility may drop quickly if winds increase. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Black ice possible on trestles and shaded curves. Take it slow. |
| Afternoon | Low teens | Cold pavement stays slick. Gusty winds may affect vehicle handling. |
| Evening | Near or below zero | Refreeze spreads ice quickly. Extra caution is needed after sunset. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
Right: Seward Highway at Summit Lake, Milepost 45.8. Blowing snow and cold temperatures can quickly reduce traction and visibility. | Alaska 511
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits | Cold pockets near Turnagain Arm hold ice longer. Watch curves closely. |
| Afternoon | Low teens | Breezy winds and cold keep traction limited. Reduce speed in exposed areas. |
| Evening | Dropping after dark | Ice forms fast. Use headlights early and drive steadily. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Near zero to single digits | Early travel remains slick. Bridges and shaded stretches freeze first. |
| Afternoon | Single digits to low teens | Packed snow and icy patches alternate. Expect uneven traction. |
| Evening | Below zero | Hard refreeze sets in. Winter tires and patience are essential. |
🌬️ Wind, Cold and Ongoing Warnings
Photo credit: Alaska Headline Living ©️
The National Weather Service reports continued High Wind Warnings for the Lower Matanuska Valley and nearby mountain passes through much of Sunday. Northeast winds remain strong, with gusts capable of producing blowing snow and reduced visibility. Even outside warning areas, cold temperatures alone are enough to keep road conditions hazardous.
Wind chill values will remain well below zero at times, especially in open and elevated areas.
❄️ Memaw’s Holiday Road Wisdom
Memaw says the bells may be jingling, but winter is still serious business. If your plans can wait, today might be a good day to stay cozy. If you must travel, preparation matters. 🚗
- 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 will get you there safe and sound.
💅
