A Little More Daylight and the Same Old Winter Roads
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | February 2026
Well hey there, sweetheart. The good news is the days are stretching out just a bit now, and that sunlight is slowly finding its way back to us. The bad news is winter roads did not get the memo. Temperatures are flirting with freezing, which means slick spots can show up without warning, especially in the morning and again after sunset. Memaw has checked the highways, the skies, and the timing of the light so you know exactly what kind of Monday you are rolling into. Take it easy, keep your distance, and let the extra daylight work for you, not against you.
🚙 Parks Highway
Celebrate the season of love and local creativity at the February 1st Saturday Vendor Market, happening from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 350 E Dahlia Avenue in Palmer. Shop Alaskan artisans and small businesses offering handmade goods, baked treats, art, gifts, and unique finds, connect with local wellness experts, and enjoy food trucks while supporting your local maker community.
| Time of Day | Hi Temp (°F) | Lo Temp (°F) | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 30 | 20 | Watch for black ice on overpasses and shaded areas. Slow down. |
| Afternoon | 32 | 24 | Roads generally icy in spots; partial sun can blind drivers. |
| Evening | 28 | 22 | Icy pockets increase as temperatures fall; keep headlights on. |
| Sunrise & Sunset | Sunrise ~8:03 AM | Sunset ~5:07 PM | Low sun angle can cause glare; slow and steady. |
| Aurora Tonight | Kp likely below strong display levels | Cloudy skies likely | Not a night to chase lights; visibility low. |
🚙 Glenn Highway
| Time of Day | Hi Temp (°F) | Lo Temp (°F) | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 30 | 20 | Ice on bridges and heights; reduce speed. |
| Afternoon | 32 | 24 | Variable surface conditions; plenty of clouds reduce contrast. |
| Evening | 28 | 22 | Black ice probable; keep space between cars. |
| Sunrise & Sunset | Same as above | Sunglasses help with low sun. | |
| Aurora Tonight | Similar conditions | Don’t count on clear skies. |
🚐 Seward Highway
| Time of Day | Hi Temp (°F) | Lo Temp (°F) | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 30 | 20 | Watch for icy runoff on curves near water. |
| Afternoon | 32 | 24 | Road moisture and temps near freezing = slick spots. |
| Evening | 28 | 22 | Rapid temp drop increases ice risk. |
| Sunrise & Sunset | Times above | Beware glare near horizon. | |
| Aurora Tonight | Same outlook | Limited chance to see it. |
🚚 Sterling Highway – Homer
The Porcupine Theater at 106 W Pioneer Avenue in Homer opens its doors at 2:00 PM. Admission is free for Porcupine Members with proof of membership at the door, and no advance tickets are required. Not a member yet? Memberships are available and include unlimited movies and live sporting events, with a Sports Only option for live games. Food and concessions will be available, along with beer and wine for purchase. Guests under 21 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
| Time of Day | Hi Temp (°F) | Lo Temp (°F) | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 30 | 20 | Early fog patch possible; headlights necessary. |
| Afternoon | 32 | 24 | Temps near freezing mean every melt can refreeze. |
| Evening | 28 | 22 | Ice more likely after sunset. |
| Sunrise & Sunset | Times above | Sun angle tricky at sunset. | |
| Aurora Tonight | Same | Clear skies needed for aurora view. |
🚗 Knik Goose Bay Road & Fairview Loop
| Time of Day | Hi Temp (°F) | Lo Temp (°F) | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 30 | 20 | Local side roads often less cleared; watch ice. |
| Afternoon | 32 | 24 | Slow traffic; be patient with locals and plows. |
| Evening | 28 | 22 | Icy edges near shoulders. |
| Sunrise & Sunset | Times above | Snow glare on road edges. | |
| Aurora Tonight | Same | Likely too cloudy/low Kp. |
💗 Memaw’s Parting Words
Now listen to me, sweetheart. The sun is staying up a little longer each day, but winter still has a firm grip on these roads. Slow down where it shines and slow down even more where it does not. Keep your headlights on, your patience full, and your pride out of the driver’s seat. You’ll get there just fine if you give the road the respect it’s asking for today. Remember: Road Rules, ie: the road rules the day.
💅
