Friday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning Alaska and happy Friday. The workweek is wrapping up, holiday plans are stacking up, and winter is still fully committed to its role. Cold temperatures continue across Southcentral, with clear skies allowing for another strong overnight refreeze. That means slick conditions early, especially on bridges, shaded stretches, and well traveled curves that polished up overnight.
Winds are lighter than earlier in the week, but cold pavement remains the main concern. Sunshine will help morale more than traction, so take it easy, give yourself extra time, and let the day start calm and steady. Check 511.alaska.gov before heading out for cameras and road updates.
🚗 Parks Highway (Wasilla and the Mat Su Valley)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold overnight refreeze means icy bridges and slick curves. Slow down early. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10 to 14°F | Sun improves visibility but pavement stays cold. Watch for hard packed snow. |
| Evening | Falling back toward single digits | Refreeze sets in fast. Take your time heading to holiday plans. |
🚙 Glenn Highway (Anchorage to Palmer)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Low to mid teens | Black ice possible on trestles and shaded bends. Ease into the drive. |
| Afternoon | Mid teens | Compact snow and slick spots linger. Keep extra following distance. |
| Evening | Near or below 10°F | Cold wins again after sunset. Slow speeds and headlights help. |
🚐 Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm Corridor)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Single digits to low teens | Cold pockets near the Arm stay icy longer. Stay focused through curves. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 10°F | Exposed sections remain slick. Let faster traffic pass safely. |
| Evening | Dropping after dark | Ice builds quickly. Reduce speed and stay steady. |
🚘 Sterling Highway (Kenai Peninsula)
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Teens to single digits | Morning is the slickest. Bridges and shaded stretches need extra care. |
| Afternoon | Highs near 12 to 15°F | Packed snow and icy patches alternate. Expect changing traction. |
| Evening | Near or below zero | Hard freeze returns. Winter tires and patience matter most. |
❄️ Cold Outlook Heading Into the Weekend
The cold pattern continues into the weekend with below normal temperatures sticking around. Clear nights mean continued refreeze each evening, setting up slick mornings again Saturday and Sunday. Winds remain mostly light, but cold air alone is enough to keep road conditions tricky, especially during early and late travel hours.
🎁 Memaw’s Friday Road Wisdom
- Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip
- Assume bridges and shaded areas are icy
- Slow down early and again after sunset
- Leave extra space between you and the car ahead
- Keep winter gear in the vehicle even for short trips
💅 Memaw says Friday roads may look calm, but winter still has the final word. Slow it down, enjoy the holiday glow, and make it home safe to whatever good thing is waiting for you.
💅
