Tuesday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning, Alaska. The holiday lights are still twinkling, but winter is keeping a firm grip on the roads this morning. Cold temperatures remain locked in, and while the strongest winds are easing compared to the weekend, breezy conditions and icy pavement will continue to shape the Tuesday commute. Overnight refreeze means slick spots will be common early, especially on bridges, shaded curves, and open stretches.
Forecasters say this cold pattern hangs on through the week, so don’t expect a quick turnaround. Today is another drive with care kind of morning. Always check 511.alaska.gov before heading out.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Around 10 to 14°F | Icy stretches and lingering drifting snow possible. Slow down, especially on open Valley sections. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 15 to 18°F | Cold pavement stays slick. Watch for shaded areas that never thaw. |
| Evening | Falling into single digits | Roads refreeze quickly after dark. Extra caution needed for evening travel. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Low teens | Bridges and overpasses are icy early. Take it slow through curves and trestles. |
| Afternoon | Mid teens | Breezy spots may move loose snow across lanes. Maintain extra following distance. |
| Evening | Near or below 10°F | Refreeze sets in fast. Reduce speed and stay alert for black ice. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold pockets and coastal winds can mean slick pavement. Keep both hands on the wheel. |
| Afternoon | Around 10 to 14°F | Curves and shaded stretches stay icy. Conditions can change quickly. |
| Evening | Dropping after sunset | Expect increasing slick spots. Headlights on and speed down. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Bridges freeze first. Slow early and watch shaded curves. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 14 to 17°F | Alternating packed snow and ice possible. Follow plows at a safe distance. |
| Evening | Falling toward single digits | Ice builds quickly after dark. Winter tires strongly recommended. |
🌬️ Wind and Cold Today
Winds are lighter than the weekend, but breezy conditions remain in exposed areas, especially through the Mat-Su Valley, Turnagain Arm, and along the Glenn Highway corridor. With temperatures staying well below freezing, any moisture on the road will remain ice. Wind chills this morning may feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
There is no major warmup in sight. Forecasts keep cold temperatures in place through midweek, meaning icy mornings and refreezing roads will remain part of the daily routine.
❄️ Memaw’s Holiday Road Wisdom
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip
- Expect ice on bridges, shaded curves, and ramps
- Give yourself extra time and lower your speed
- Keep winter gear in the car, even for short drives
Memaw says this is steady, stubborn winter weather. Nothing flashy, just cold enough to punish impatience. Slow down, stay festive, and arrive in one piece. 🎄
💅
