Bright Skies, Slick Roads – Memaw’s Arctic Roll Sunday Commute | February 22, 2026

By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | February 2026

It is Sunday, which means a different kind of traffic. Fewer commuters, more relaxed drivers, churchgoers, brunch runs, and folks taking the scenic route. That slower pace can be a blessing, but it also means unpredictable turns, sudden stops, and drivers who may not be in a hurry. Add cold pavement and lingering ice to the mix, and today calls for extra awareness. Stay patient, stay alert, and assume the car ahead might tap the brakes at any moment.

🚙 Parks Highway

Parks Highway @ Hawk Lane MP 53.2 | Alaska 511

Time of DayHi Temperatures (°F)Lo TemperaturesDriving TipsRoad Risk Level
Morning2212Ice likely, slick bridges and overpasses. Take it slow.Moderate
Afternoon2212Sun improves visibility but shaded spots stay slick.Low-Moderate
Evening1512Refreeze expected after dark. Increase following distance.Moderate
Sunrise & SunsetSunrise ~7:58 AM Sunset ~6:02 PMCold start and quick cooldown after sunset.Elevated
Aurora Forecast for TonightKp ~5; minor geomagnetic activity possibleBest viewing north of town away from lights.Low-Moderate

🚙 Glenn Highway

Glenn Highway @ Thunderbird Falls MP 24.5 | Alaska 511

Time of DayHi Temperatures (°F)Lo TemperaturesDriving TipsRoad Risk Level
Morning2212Frost patches and icy curves possible.Moderate
Afternoon2212Clear skies, watch shaded stretches near river areas.Low-Moderate
Evening1512Rapid cooling means refreeze risk.Moderate
Sunrise & SunsetSunrise ~7:58 AM Sunset ~6:02 PMLow sun glare possible late afternoon.Elevated
Aurora Forecast for TonightKp ~5; aurora possible if skies remain clearLook north after 10 PM for best chance.Low-Moderate

🚐 Seward Highway

Seward Highway @ Huffman Road MP 120 | Alaska 511

Time of DayHi Temperatures (°F)Lo TemperaturesDriving TipsRoad Risk Level
Morning2212Black ice possible near Turnagain Arm and shaded cliffs.Moderate
Afternoon2212Mostly dry but cold pavement persists.Low
Evening1512Ice likely redevelops in darker stretches.Moderate
Sunrise & SunsetSunrise ~7:58 AM Sunset ~6:02 PMWatch windblown frost on exposed sections.Elevated
Aurora Forecast for TonightKp ~5; possible visible activityClear skies improve viewing chances.Low-Moderate

🚚 Sterling Highway – Homer

Sterling Hwy & Lake St – Homer | Alaska 511 Little League Practice at SPARC is happening today and continues every Sunday through April 19 from 3 to 5 PM for ages 8 and up. It is $4 at the door. Just bring clean indoor shoes and a glove. Softball players are welcome too. No practice on Easter Sunday. Hosted by Homer Little League at SPARC, 600 Sterling Highway in Homer.

Time of DayHi Temperatures (°F)Lo TemperaturesDriving TipsRoad Risk Level
Morning2212Frost and packed snow areas may be slick.Moderate
Afternoon2212Sun helps slightly, but traction varies.Low-Moderate
Evening1512Surfaces cool quickly after sunset.Moderate
Sunrise & SunsetSunrise ~7:58 AM Sunset ~6:02 PMReduced traction early and late.Elevated
Aurora Forecast for TonightKp ~5; aurora activity possibleNorthern horizon best viewing direction.Low-Moderate

🚗 Knik Goose Bay Road

KGB & S Clapp_W Fairview Loop | Alaska 511

Time of DayHi Temperatures (°F)Lo TemperaturesDriving TipsRoad Risk Level
Morning2212Neighborhood intersections may be icy.Moderate
Afternoon2212Clear but cold, shaded roads remain slick.Low-Moderate
Evening1512Refreeze likely, especially on side roads.Moderate
Sunrise & SunsetSunrise ~7:58 AM Sunset ~6:02 PMExtra caution during temperature swings.Elevated
Aurora Forecast for TonightKp ~5; potential visible auroraStep outside after dark and look north.Low-Moderate

Memaw’s Parting Words:
Whether you’re going to brunch, lunch, or Sunday school, take it easy out there today. 🌞 The sunshine looks friendly, but the pavement is still holding onto that overnight cold. Give yourself extra space, brake gently, and resist the urge to hurry. If skies stay clear tonight, we could see a little green ribbon dancing overhead. 💚 Just make sure you get home safe first.

And, speaking of the aurora …

Caught on camera near Bird Point at Milepost 96.3 along Seward Highway, where the Alaska 511 road camera picked up a glimpse of the northern lights while Memaw was checking winter driving conditions.

💅

Forecasts pulled from the National Weather Service, with road reality checks courtesy of Alaska DOT.

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