Monday Morning Update | Parks, Glenn, Seward and Sterling Highways
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Good morning, Alaska! The holiday lights are still glowing, but winter is very much in charge this Monday. Arctic cold continues to grip Southcentral, and gusty winds remain a big part of the commute, especially through the Mat Su Valley, along exposed highways, and near mountain gaps. Even where skies look calm, pavement temperatures remain bitterly cold, keeping roads slick and unpredictable.
Holiday decorations sway and rattle in the strong winds at 5:45am sweeping through Wasilla, a festive reminder that winter weather is still very much in charge.
Video by: Alaska Headline Living ©️
A High Wind Watch remains in effect through this evening, with northerly winds capable of producing blowing snow, sudden visibility drops, and difficult driving conditions for high profile vehicles. If your plans can wait, patience will serve you well today. If you must travel, preparation matters.
🚗 Parks Highway: Wasilla and the Mat Su Valley
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | -18°F to -5°F | Strong winds and extreme cold keep pavement icy. Watch for drifting snow in open areas. |
| Afternoon | -10°F to 5°F | Cold pavement remains slick despite daylight. Gusts may affect vehicle handling. |
| Evening | -20°F to -5°F | Rapid refreeze after dark. Visibility may drop quickly if winds increase. |
🚙 Glenn Highway: Anchorage to Palmer
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | -15°F to 0°F | Black ice likely on bridges and trestles. Slow down early. |
| Afternoon | -5°F to 10°F | Gusty winds persist near Eagle River and the Valley. Maintain extra following distance. |
| Evening | -15°F to -5°F | Ice spreads quickly after sunset. Expect slick curves and shaded stretches. |
🚐 Seward Highway: Turnagain Arm Corridor
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | -5°F to 10°F | Cold pockets near Turnagain Arm hold ice longer. Watch exposed curves. |
| Afternoon | 5°F to 15°F | Winds funneling through the corridor may cause sudden gusts and blowing snow. |
| Evening | -5°F to 5°F | Refreeze sets in fast. Reduce speed and use headlights early. |
🚘 Sterling Highway: Kenai Peninsula
| Time of Day | Temperature | Driving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | -10°F to 5°F | Icy stretches linger, especially on bridges and shaded areas. |
| Afternoon | 5°F to 15°F | Packed snow and slick patches alternate. Expect uneven traction. |
| Evening | -10°F to 0°F | Hard refreeze after dark. Winter tires and patience are essential. |
🌬️ Wind and Cold Advisory
The National Weather Service continues a High Wind Watch through 9 pm this evening for parts of Southcentral Alaska, including the Lower Matanuska Valley and nearby passes. Northerly winds may remain strong enough to create blowing snow and reduced visibility. Wind chill values remain well below zero at times, especially in open and elevated areas.
❄️ Memaw’s Holiday Road Wisdom
Photo by: Alaska Headline Living ©️
Even with twinkly lights and holiday cheer, many Alaskans are still commuting to work. Bundle up, slow down, and make safety the first stop of the day. Strong winds, extreme cold, and icy pavement do not take holidays off, and roads that look dry can still be slick and unforgiving. Memaw says patience, preparation, and a steady hand on the wheel will get you where you need to go, and back home again.
Check 511.alaska.gov before every trip
Bridges, trestles, and shaded curves refreeze first
Slow down early in the morning and again after sunset
Leave extra space between vehicles
Secure loose items and dress for extreme cold
Keep winter gear in the car, even for short drives
Let someone know your route before you go
Memaw’s rule of the road is simple. Slow, steady, and prepared will get you there safe and sound.
