Wednesday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning Alaska, and happy midweek in the heart of the holiday season. While the lights are glowing and playlists are jingling, winter is still running a tight operation on the roads this morning. Cold temperatures settled in overnight and they are not in any hurry to leave, which means slick pavement, stubborn ice, and a slow warmup for drivers heading out early.
The good news is sunshine helps the mood. The not-so-jolly news is that pavement temperatures stay cold even when the sky looks cheerful. Add in breezy winds on open stretches, and today’s commute calls for patience, preparation, and maybe one extra sip of coffee before you go. As always, check 511.alaska.gov before leaving and give yourself some grace out there.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | The Valley woke up icy. Bridges and open stretches are slick. Slow down and keep plenty of space. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10 to 12°F | Sunshine helps visibility but pavement stays cold. Watch for drifting snow where winds pick up. |
| Evening | Dropping back into single digits | Refreeze happens fast after dark. Holiday plans are better enjoyed without rushing. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Low teens | Black ice is likely on shaded curves and trestles. Take it slow and steady early. |
| Afternoon | Mid teens | Compact snow and icy patches remain. Keep your following distance generous. |
| Evening | Falling toward single digits | Roads refreeze quickly once the sun dips. Ease off the gas and stay alert. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold pockets and coastal winds keep ice locked in. Both hands on the wheel. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10°F | Curves and exposed stretches stay slick. Let faster drivers go and enjoy the view safely. |
| Evening | Falling after sunset | Ice builds quickly. Headlights on early and speed down. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Morning travel is the iciest. Bridges and shaded bends need extra care. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 12 to 15°F | Packed snow and ice mix together. Expect changing traction. |
| Evening | Near or below zero | Hard freeze returns. Winter tires and patience are your best gifts tonight. |
🌬️ Cold and Wind Outlook
Southcentral Alaska remains under a stubborn cold pattern, with below-normal temperatures holding through the week. Winds are lighter than the weekend but still breezy in exposed areas, especially through the Mat-Su Valley and Turnagain Arm. Even on sunny days, road surfaces stay cold, which means ice lingers longer than it looks like it should.
❄️ Memaw’s Holiday Road Wisdom
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip
- Assume bridges and shaded curves are icy, because they usually are
- Slow down early in the morning and again after dark
- Give yourself extra time so the holidays stay merry
- Keep winter gear in the car, even for quick errands
Memaw says this is classic Alaska December driving. Cold mornings, pretty skies, and roads that demand respect. Slow down, enjoy the lights, and make it home safe to whatever is waiting in the oven.
💅
