With Memaw’s Holiday Cheer and Hard Truths
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning, sugarplums. The Valley is sparkling in the winter sun, but the wind is still huffing and puffing like it wants to blow Santa’s sleigh right off the roof. The National Weather Service has a High Wind Warning in effect through 1:00 PM AKST. Northeast winds are running 30 to 40 miles per hour with gusts up to 80 miles per hour, along with blowing snow that can sneak across the highways when you least expect it.
Memaw will keep the holiday sprinkles coming, but she is also going to give you the real scoop. Tie things down, dress like you mean it, and take your time on the roads.⚠️ High Wind Warning in effect until 1:00 PM AKST. Source: U.S. National Weather Service
🎁 All Day Weather and Driving Tips Table
(Updated with today, tonight, and Tuesday’s forecast)
| Time | Temp and Conditions | Winds | Visibility | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 AM | Clear, 14 F | NE 30 to 40 mph, gusts to 80 mph | Good, with blowing snow | Warm up the car, check wipers, and go slow |
| 8 AM | Clear, 13 to 14 F | Strong NE gusts | Drifting and blowing snow possible | Watch for black ice and drifting snow over open stretches |
| 10 AM | Sunny, 15 to 16 F | Gusty, slowly easing | Mostly clear | Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid sudden lane changes |
| Noon | Sunny, 19 to 20 F | Still breezy | Clear skies | Increase following distance and expect icy patches |
| 2 PM | Sunny, 20 to 22 F | Breezy | Clear | High profile vehicles should use caution in side winds |
| 4 PM | Clear, 18 F | Winds decreasing | Clear | Reduce speed as temperatures fall again |
| 6 PM | Clear, 17 to 18 F | NE 20 to 25 mph, gusts to 40 mph | Excellent | Watch shaded and bridge areas for refreeze |
| Night | Clear, near 15 F | Winds easing to 20 to 25 mph | Excellent | Keep winter gear in the vehicle as temps drop |
| Tuesday Morning | Mostly sunny, near 0 to 3 F | NE 15 to 20 mph early | Clear and cold | Expect very icy morning roads due to colder temps |
| Tuesday Afternoon | Sunny, high near 8 F | Winds dropping to 5 to 10 mph, gusts to 25 mph | Excellent | Much calmer day, but roads stay icy |
⚠️ Hazards / Warnings
- A High-Wind Warning is in effect this morning until 1:00 PM AKST over the Lower Matanuska Valley (which includes Wasilla). National Weather Service+1
- Forecast calls for northeast winds 30–40 mph, with gusts up to 80 mph. Combined with the cold, wind-chill values could drop to –10 to –20 °F this morning. National Weather Service
- Expect areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility at times. National Weather Service+1
Given that, make sure you bundle up, secure anything loose, and take extra care on the roads. It’s going to be another raw one out there.
🚗 Parks Highway Commute
- As of this morning, no active road-closure or incident alert is being broadcast on Alaska 511 for the Parks Highway. Alaska 511+1
- However, the High-Wind Warning and blowing-snow potential mean drivers should expect possible drifting snow, icy patches, and reduced visibility.
- If you travel between the Mat-Su Valley and Anchorage or beyond, use caution, especially on elevated sections or open stretches where wind can throw snow across the roadway.
- Allow extra travel time and consider slower speeds even if the road appears clear.
🏔️ Glenn Highway
The Glenn Highway is running without reported incidents, but the strong northeast winds continue to sweep across open valleys and ridgelines. Drivers can expect blowing snow, sudden dips in visibility, and slick pavement where the sun has not yet reached. The mountains will sparkle in the morning light, but winter driving smarts are still required. Keep extra space between vehicles and stay patient.
🛣️ Seward Highway Commute
The Seward Highway also shows no active incidents, yet drivers should remain alert. Gusty winds along Turnagain Arm can whip snow across the road, and black ice is likely in shaded curves and bridge decks. Even with the bright sun and stunning views, this morning calls for slower speeds and careful steering. The conditions improve through the day, but the morning commute needs extra caution.
If you are commuting south or toward Anchorage, drive defensively, keep lights on, and leave yourself an extra buffer for stopping.
🛣️ Sterling Highway Commute
The Sterling Highway is reported clear, but overnight refreeze and cold temperatures are creating black ice in the usual spots, including bridge decks and shaded forest stretches. Winds are lighter here than in the Mat-Su, though occasional swirling snow may appear in open areas. Bring a warm thermos and take your time, especially if you are heading toward Soldotna or Homer early in the day.
❤️ Memaw’s Holiday Send Off
Bundle up, buttercups. The High Wind Warning will ease by afternoon, and tonight the winds drop to a more manageable 20 to 25 miles per hour with gusts to 40. By Tuesday, the weather settles down with sunshine and calmer breezes, although the cold will sharpen. Keep the cocoa hot, secure your decorations, and drive with care. Memaw wants every one of you home safe to enjoy the lights, the treats, and the peace of the season.
