By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | January 2026
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Anchorage and the Lower Matanuska Valley until 9 PM this evening.
Heavy snow will continue today with 6–12 inches expected from Anchorage north to Big Lake and Wasilla, and 5–10 inches from Palmer to Birchwood and Eagle River. Periods of heavier snow could reduce visibility to a half mile or less, with snowfall rates up to an inch per hour.
Travel and Commute:
The Anchorage Police Department warns that roads and highways are hazardous. Travel could be very difficult tonight and may affect the Tuesday evening commute. Tomorrow morning’s drive to work may also be slippery, especially on untreated roads. Allow extra time and drive cautiously.
Schools & Activities:
The Anchorage School District has canceled all after‑school sports, activities, King Tech’s third session, and community rentals today due to hazardous road conditions. After-school childcare programs continue. If schools are safe to open tomorrow, updates will be provided by 5:30 a.m.
All MSBSD regions are open today, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, and transportation services are operating. Some areas received 5 to 7 inches of snow, and road crews and facilities teams are continuing snow removal efforts. Please allow extra time, expect possible delays, and drive carefully.
Denali Refuse Service: Snow-covered and unplowed side roads may prevent crews from reaching some neighborhoods today. Missed pickups will be collected next Tuesday at no extra charge. Crews will resume service as conditions allow and communicate any schedule changes.
Snowy and unplowed side roads are making it difficult for crews to reach some neighborhoods today. If your trash is not picked up, don’t worry. Extra cans will be collected next Tuesday at no additional charge. Crews will resume pickups as conditions allow and will notify customers of any changes. Please stay safe while clearing paths and navigating snowy streets.
Outlook: Snow should taper off Wednesday with partly sunny skies, but icy patches may linger on untreated surfaces.
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