Thursday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning Alaska! Christmas is closer than ever and the weather is keeping that winter spirit alive.
A Wind Advisory continues into today around the Mat-Su Valley, with gusts still possible near 35 to 40 mph in some spots and bitter cold temps lingering across Southcentral. National Weather Service
The National Weather Service says winds and cold will still play a role in travel, though winds are lighter than recent days and generally manageable on main highways. National Weather Service Early morning refreeze and icy bridges are the biggest concerns today, so slow and steady is Memaw’s motto for this Thursday commute.
As always, check 511.alaska.gov before you go for the latest road cameras, crashes and maintenance closures.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Around 10 to 15°F with light winds | Icy spots early on bridges and shady curves. Slow down and give plows room. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 14 to 16°F | Sun helps visibility but pavement stays cold. Expect slick patches. |
| Evening | Falling toward single digits | Refreeze after dark. Take it easy and leave extra travel time. |
Notes: A Wind Advisory is still in effect this morning with occasional gusts that may blow loose snow back onto road surfaces. National Weather Service
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Low to mid teens | Early icing likely near trestles and curves. Reduce speed. |
| Afternoon | Mid teens | Cold pavement and packed snow remain. Keep your distance. |
| Evening | Near or below 10°F | Most surfaces will refreeze quickly. Use headlights and go slow. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold pockets near the Arm hold ice longer. Steady speed and extra caution. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10°F | Drifting snow possible in gustier areas. Be alert. |
| Evening | Falling after sunset | Ice builds up quick. Slow down and stay in control. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Bridges freeze early here too. Slow early and watch shaded areas. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 12 to 15°F | Alternating packed snow and ice likely. Follow plows at a safe distance. |
| Evening | Near or below zero | Icy conditions return as temp drops. Winter gear and patience are key. |
❄️ Wind and Cold Outlook
Today will be sunny and cold, with temperatures staying near or well below freezing across Southcentral Alaska. Anchorage forecasts show highs near 6 to 7°F with calm to light winds and overnight lows dipping below zero again tonight. National Weather Service+1
A Wind Advisory remains in place until 6 PM Thursday around the Matanuska Valley with northeast winds around 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 35 to 40 mph possible, making drifting snow more than just a background decoration. National Weather Service
🎁 Memaw’s Holiday Driving Wisdom
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip for real-time road conditions.
- Bridges, trestles and shaded curves refreeze first in the cold.
- Slow your speed, especially in the first hours of your commute.
- Keep your winter gear, shovel and extra blanket in the car.
This Thursday commute has that holiday glow, but winter still calls the shots. With a little patience and respect for the cold, you’ll stay safe and festive on the road. Happy Holidays! 🎉
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