Leftovers in the fridge, frost on the roads, and winter driving rules apply.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning, sugar. Before you warm up the rig and head out this Saturday, Memaw wants you to know the National Weather Service in Anchorage has issued a High Wind Watch for the Lower Matanuska Valley, including Palmer, Wasilla, and Big Lake. Strong northeast winds are expected to ramp up Saturday afternoon and could stick around through Monday. Gusts could reach 60 to 70 miles per hour, and with a few inches of fresh, powdery snow on the ground, blowing snow and reduced visibility may make travel tricky, especially later in the day. This is one of those weekends where planning ahead and driving patient really matters.
📍 Temps and conditions are approximate for general regions along the highways. Winds and slick spots are the big deal today.
🚗 Parks Highway
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 0 to 10°F | Cold and quiet early, but expect slick spots from overnight snow. Watch bridges and shaded areas for black ice. Winds start light but conditions begin changing by late morning. |
| Afternoon | 8 to 18°F | High Wind Watch begins to matter. Northeast winds increase with gusts strong enough to push vehicles, especially high-profile rigs. Blowing snow possible with reduced visibility in open stretches. |
| Evening | -2 to 6°F | Winds remain strong and temperatures drop fast. Fresh snow combined with gusts can drift back onto the roadway. Slow down and be ready for sudden whiteout patches. |
Memaw says: Wrap up errands early. Them gusty winds can push your rig around, and we don’t need any slide-offs on a holiday weekend.
🚗 Glenn Highway
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 5 to 12°F | Snow-covered and icy in spots around Palmer and Wasilla. Winds stay manageable early, but drifting snow may already show up in open valley areas. |
| Afternoon | 10 to 18°F | Strong northeast winds develop. Gusts could reach dangerous levels, especially near the Knik River and valley gaps. Blowing snow and sudden visibility drops likely. |
| Evening | 0 to 8°F | Winds continue into the night. Roads may look clear one minute and drifted the next. Extra following distance is not optional tonight. |
Memaw says: If ya gotta drive this one, do it with patience and a full tank. No rushin’ when it’s winter cold and folks still on holiday vibes.
🚗 Seward Highway
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 5 to 15°F | Variable weather on this scenic but twisty road. Snow and drift build-up possible near passes. Slow and steady. National Weather Service |
| Afternoon | 10 to 18°F | Stay ready for blowing snow near Turnagain Arm. Wind gusts up high can knock you off your line easy. National Weather Service |
| Evening | 0 to 8°F | Cold roads get slick again. Mind those shaded turns. Watch for traffic slowdowns in Moose Pass area. Alaska Department of Transportation |
Memaw says: Pretty drive but don’t let them mountains fool ya. A gust and a patch of black ice can turn a pretty drive into a long day.
🚗 Sterling Highway
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 10 to 20°F | Winter road surface likely packed snow. Take extra time for curves and lakeside stretches. National Weather Service |
| Afternoon | 15 to 25°F | Warming might loosen some snow but could be slushy in spots. Watch for lane shifts and slow trucks. National Weather Service |
| Evening | 5 to 15°F | Cold settles back in quickly after sunset. Watch for slippery sections near bridges and river crossings. National Weather Service |
Memaw says: Drive like your cousin Vera taught ya. Slow, steady, and ready for anything this time of year.
Note from your coach: Memaw’s final word today is this. High winds and fresh snow are a bad combination, especially along open highways and valley stretches. Secure anything loose at home, keep your gas tank happy, and give yourself extra time on the road. Conditions are expected to worsen Saturday afternoon and peak Sunday, with improvement not likely until Monday. Check 511 before you go, keep both hands on the wheel, and if it feels sketchy, there’s no shame in waiting it out. Roads will still be there tomorrow, honey.
☕️ Stay safe, keep a warm drink, and may your tires find grip wherever you’re headed.
💅
