Southcentral woke up to a holiday shuffle this morning after powerful overnight winds scattered decorations far and wide. Inflatable Santas toppled, lights tangled, and more than a few front-yard displays took unexpected road trips.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Why I’m extra careful: recent reminders
Recent crashes across Southcentral show just how quickly winter conditions can turn dangerous. Near the Glenn Highway weigh station in Eagle River, a family vehicle hit an unexpected patch of black ice, slid out of control and crashed backward into a light pole. In the Mat-Su, a school bus carrying nine elementary students slid on icy neighborhood roads in Wasilla and tipped onto its side. Thankfully only minor injuries were reported, but both incidents are sharp reminders that even familiar routes can become hazardous in a heartbeat.
So as you read the forecast and driving tips below, keep those stories in mind. They are real reminders of how fast winter conditions can turn dangerous.
🎯 Highway-by-Highway Outlook & Advice
Parks Highway (Wasilla / Matanuska Valley)
- What to expect: Strong winds building later today into evening, with possible blowing snow and bitter wind-chill over open stretches.
- Blowing snow and drifting can quickly create slick spots and reduce visibility on open or elevated segments. Loose items (e.g., ladders, cargo) may shift or blow free.
- Slow down on exposed stretches, especially near ridges or open valleys.
- Keep extra distance between vehicles. Crosswinds and sudden gusts can push you sideways.
- Watch for snow drifts creeping onto the road.
- Secure any cargo or gear tightly.
- If conditions worsen, consider delaying non-essential trips until winds ease.
Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm / Seward area)
- What to expect: Snow and flurries on and off through the day; pavement may get slushy or snow-packed in areas depending on exposure and microclimate.
- Travel slowly, especially on curves and grades. Grip may be unpredictable.
- Use winter tires or chains if slippery begins.
- Brake gently, steer smoothly. Avoid sudden movements.
- Give extra time; pack-in extra cushion for breaks or delays.
Glenn Highway (Palmer / Eagle River corridor)
- What to expect: Cold temps, intermittent clouds during the day. High-wind warnings expected later tonight. Gusty conditions might cause blowing snow or drifting, especially near passes or open spots.
- Afternoon travel should be manageable, but be ready. Conditions may deteriorate quickly after dark.
- Keep winter-driving supplies ready (blankets, flashlight, shovel) in case of slide-offs or wind-blown hazards.
- On bridges, exposed stretches or near weigh-stations: expect gusts, slick patches, and reduced control.
- If winds get nasty, delay overnight travel if possible.
Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula / Soldotna area)
- What to expect: Cold and mostly clear morning/afternoon. A chance of a few flurries late. Shaded curves and bridge approaches may hold frost or thin ice.
- Watch for black ice on bridges, curves, and shaded areas. Especially early morning or after sunset.
- Drive for conditions: even sunny afternoon doesn’t wipe away overnight slick spots.
- Check that lights and mirrors are clear of snow/ice before moving. Clear visibility matters.
🧣 All-Day Forecast + Driving Table: Saturday, December 6, 2025
| Time of Day | Parks Hwy (Wasilla area) | Glenn Hwy (Palmer / Eagle River) | Seward Hwy (Turnagain Arm / Seward) | Sterling Hwy (Kenai / Soldotna) | Brief Driving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning (6 – 9 AM) | 15 – 18 °F, rising winds | 16 – 18 °F, mostly calm to light breeze | 17 – 19 °F, clouds increasing | 6 – 10 °F, clear or lightly frosty roads | Be alert: frost or black ice possible on Sterling. |
| Midday (10 – 2 PM) | 13 – 15 °F, wind building | 11 – 14 °F, winds calm | 16 – 17 °F, snow/flurries beginning | 11 – 14 °F, mostly clear | Slow down, especially if snow starts on Seward. |
| Afternoon (3 – 6 PM) | 10 – 13 °F, gusts rising, possible blowing snow | 10 – 12 °F, breezy, gusts increasing | 16 – 17 °F, snow continues/slush possible | 11 – 12 °F, chance of late flurries | Watch for slick patches, reduce speed. |
| Evening / Overnight (7 PM – midnight) | Temps drop to single digits. Wind-warning active after 8 PM. Gusts high | Single digits. High-wind warning. Gusts possible. | 17 °F, possibly transitional snow | 8 – 10 °F, mostly clear but slick patches possible | Best to avoid travel if winds or ice worsen. |
✅ Memaw’s Top Safety Checklist for Saturday 🧤
- Keep a winter-safety kit in your vehicle at all times: blankets, flashlight, shovel, “kitty litter” or traction sand, charger, warm drink.
- Use winter tires, especially if you’ll be on Glenn or Seward.
- Drive slowly, leave extra stopping distance, especially near bridges, curves, or where roads look glossy.
- Avoid unnecessary travel if winds pick up or snow starts heavy and absolutely avoid overnight travel if High-Wind Warnings are active.
- When conditions are dicey consider staying home. Your loved ones and your car will thank you later.
💅
