By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Saturday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
Well hey there, holiday travelers. If you’re heading out this weekend, Memaw’s advice is simple: bundle up, slow down, and don’t underestimate the wind. A blast of cold air paired with strong northeast winds is setting the tone for travel across Southcentral Alaska, especially in the Mat-Su Valley, and it’s not packing up overnight.
Forecasters are watching High Wind Watches and Warnings for the Valley and other exposed areas this weekend, with blowing snow, drifting, and rapidly changing visibility all on the table. Roads may look fine one minute and turn slick the next, especially after sunset.
Below is what drivers can expect today and tonight on Alaska’s major corridors.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley)
Cold and wind are the main story here, with the Valley sitting squarely in the bullseye.
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Around 10–13°F with increasing northeast winds | Expect slick spots in shaded areas. Watch for drifting snow on open stretches and bridges. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10–13°F. Winds strengthening, gusts 35–45 mph possible | Gusty crosswinds may affect handling, especially for high-profile vehicles. Slow down and keep both hands on the wheel. |
| Evening & Overnight | Falling into single digits. Winds increasing into High Wind Warning range | Travel only if necessary. Blowing snow may reduce visibility quickly. Pack warm gear and allow extra time. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
Conditions vary along this route, especially near trestles and exposed sections.
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Near freezing in lower elevations | Black ice possible on curves and shaded pavement. Take it easy early. |
| Afternoon | Near freezing with breezy conditions | Expect compact snow and icy patches. Maintain extra following distance. |
| Evening | Cooling rapidly after sunset | Roads may refreeze quickly. Reduce speed and stay alert for sudden slick spots. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
This route demands extra attention, especially with wind and ongoing winter hazards.
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits near passes | Strong winds near Turnagain Arm. Watch for blowing snow and reduced visibility. |
| Afternoon | Highs around 6–10°F | Conditions can change quickly. Slow for curves and coastal sections. |
| Evening | Temperatures falling. Wind remains active | Expect icy patches and low visibility in spots. Keep headlights on and be prepared for delays. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
Colder interior stretches contrast with slightly milder coastal pockets.
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Bridges and shaded curves are slick. Reduce speed early. |
| Afternoon | Cold with occasional breezes | Expect alternating wet and icy pavement. Follow plows at a safe distance. |
| Evening | Cooling quickly | Bridges freeze first. Winter tires and caution are key. |
🌬️ Weekend Wind Watch: What Drivers Need to Know
The Mat-Su Valley remains under a High Wind Watch through early Monday, with northeast winds 35–50 mph and higher gusts possible. These winds can blow loose snow back onto roads even after plowing, reducing visibility and creating sudden slick spots.
Other exposed areas, including parts of the Glenn and Seward Highways, may also see strong gusts through the weekend.
❄️ How Long Will This Cold Stick Around?
If you’re hoping for a quick warmup, Memaw hates to be the bearer of chilly news.
Weather experts say this cold pattern is likely to hold through at least early next week, especially overnight. Hard freezes are expected each night, which means roads that soften a bit in the afternoon can turn icy again after dark.
By midweek, there are early hints of slight moderation, but not a real thaw. Think a few degrees warmer, not jacket-free weather. Longer-range outlooks suggest below-normal temperatures could linger through much of December, so this cold snap may be part of a longer winter rhythm rather than a brief visit.
What that means for drivers:
- Expect icy mornings and refreezing roads every night
- Plan for winter driving conditions to remain the norm, not the exception
- Strong winds may continue to undo road maintenance efforts in exposed areas
🎄 Memaw’s Holiday Travel Tips
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip for live road cameras and closures
- Give yourself extra time and lower expectations for speed
- Carry warm clothing, a phone charger, and basic winter emergency supplies
- If High Wind Warnings are upgraded or visibility drops, consider delaying travel
Bottom line, friends: this is real Alaska winter driving. Slow down, stay alert, and let someone else get there first if conditions don’t feel right. The holidays will wait.
Alaska Headline Living ©️
