Alaska is facing a mix of severe winter weather, ongoing disaster recovery, seismic preparedness, and public safety alerts this week, while local communities continue to highlight resilience and leadership across the state.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
Alaska is moving through a demanding period of winter weather, ongoing recovery efforts, seismic planning, and an active missing person search, while also recognizing positive leadership emerging across the state.
High Wind Watch for the Matanuska Valley
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch for the Lower and Upper Matanuska Valley, including Wasilla, Palmer, Big Lake, Sutton, and Chickaloon.
The watch is in effect from late Saturday night through Monday morning. Northeast winds of 35 to 50 mph are possible, with gusts between 60 and 80 mph. Wind chills could fall to 10 to 20 degrees below zero.
High winds may move loose debris, damage property, and cause power outages. Travel may be difficult, and frostbite on exposed skin is possible in as little as 30 minutes.
Blizzard Conditions in the Interior
Blizzard conditions are expected to continue through tonight across the Central and Eastern Interior. An additional 1 to 3 inches of snow, with higher totals south and east of Fairbanks, combined with increasing winds may lead to whiteout conditions.
Travel may be extremely hazardous or impossible in some areas.
❄️🧊 Bitter Cold Forecast Into January
The NOAA Climate Prediction Center warns of an extended stretch of bitter cold across Alaska that could last into early January. Parts of southeastern Alaska may experience temperatures between minus 20 and minus 40 degrees, increasing risks to infrastructure and public safety.
🫨 Earthquake Early Warning Planning
State and federal partners continue work toward expanding the ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system in Alaska. Phase 1 focuses on Southcentral Alaska, with planned expansion toward Kodiak, Prince William Sound, Fairbanks, and Southeast Alaska.
The system would use a dense network of seismic stations to issue alerts seconds before strong shaking arrives, providing critical time for people to take protective action and for automated systems to secure utilities, transportation, hospitals, and military facilities.
Anchorage Police Seek Missing Woman
Anchorage Police are seeking the public’s help locating 28‑year‑old Kaitlyn Kaganak, last seen December 1 in the Bragaw Street area. Family has not heard from her and there is concern for her well‑being. Anyone with information is asked to contact Anchorage Police Dispatch at 3‑1‑1 or 907‑786‑8900.
Description:
- Height: 5 feet 2 inches
- Weight: 115 pounds
- Hair: Brown
- Eyes: Black
APD Case Number: 25 37938
Anyone with information is urged to contact Anchorage Police Dispatch at 3 1 1, option 1, or 907 786 8900, press 0. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Anchorage Crime Stoppers online.
Palmer Fire Chief Chad Cameron Passes Away
The Alaska fire service community is mourning the loss of Chief Chad Cameron of Palmer Fire & Rescue, who died following a battle with job-related cancer. Chief Cameron dedicated his career to public service, serving his community, colleagues, and family with unwavering commitment.
Known for his leadership, mentorship, and infectious smile, Chief Cameron made a lasting impact across the Alaska fire service. Colleagues described him as a true public servant whose work improved safety and morale statewide.
Chief Cameron will be deeply missed by his family, fellow firefighters, and the communities he served.
Western Alaska Recovery After Typhoon Halong
Recovery continues in Western Alaska following storm impacts linked to Typhoon Halong. Evacuees have largely transitioned from mass shelters to non congregate and longer term housing in Anchorage and Bethel.
Villages such as Kipnuk, where more than 90 percent of structures were destroyed, face a prolonged rebuilding effort complicated by winter weather and logistical challenges. Many residents are expected to remain displaced for months or longer.
State and federal disaster declarations have released recovery funding, with FEMA and the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management supporting infrastructure repair, housing coordination, and fraud prevention efforts.
Alaska Youth Recognized for Service
Six students have been named 2025 Summer of Heroes by Alaska Communications for their contributions to communities across the state. Each received a 2,000 dollar scholarship.
The honorees are:
- Ella Boerger, Anchorage
- Grace Kahn, Kenai
- Shelby Rider, North Pole
- Lola Swanson, Seward
- Xiling Tanner, Kenai
- Makai Warren Dowl, Chugiak
Their work spans food security, youth mentorship, mental health advocacy, arts access, and community inclusion, offering a hopeful note as Alaska heads deeper into winter.
