The MEA Outage Web Map highlights major outage clusters in the Mat-Su region, with service interruptions lasting about two days, as crews continue repairs amid strong winds. (Courtesy: Matanuska Electric Association)
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
PALMER / WASILLA, Alaska – A powerful windstorm that ripped through the Matanuska-Susitna Valley over the weekend has left thousands of residents without electricity and kept the National Weather Service’s High Wind Warning in place as utility crews continue repairs across a wide swath of the borough. National Weather Service+1
Outages persist as winds and cold continue
Utility reports and NWS forecasts show the outage event is widespread: MEA’s outage page points readers to the cooperative’s live outage map and rolled-out safety guidance as crews work multiple feeder lines, while National Weather Service forecasters warn of northeast winds sustained at 30–40 mph with gusts up to about 75–85 mph, and dangerous wind-chill values through Monday. Matanuska Electric Association+1
How many are still in the dark
Local forecasts and situation reports indicate that outages peaked at more than 20,000 members early in the event and that, while crews have restored service to many customers, roughly tens of thousands of households remained without power into Sunday, with large pockets still dark in the Knik/Goose Bay and Palmer–Wasilla corridors and a number of broken-pole repairs that will take longer to complete. Officials say restoration is complicated by downed trees, broken poles and continuing high winds. National Weather Service+1
Weather threat remains as warning in effect extended until Monday afternoon
The National Weather Service has the High Wind Warning active for the Lower Matanuska Valley and surrounding zones through at least 1:00 p.m. Monday (AKST). Forecasters say the strongest gusts are likely over open and exposed areas and that blowing snow could reduce visibility in places. The hazard increases the risk of additional outages and complicates repair efforts. National Weather Service+1
Shelter and relief: where people can go to warm up, charge devices and shower
With long outages and freezing wind chill expected, emergency managers and the American Red Cross opened emergency shelter space for residents in need of warmth, phone-charging and basic services. A Red Cross-supported shelter is available at Glenn Massay Theater, Mat-Su College: 8295 E. College Drive, Palmer; the theater is operating as a temporary warming center where people can stay, charge devices and access snacks and support. Additional localized shelters were reported to open in Sutton and other communities as needs arose. Residents should check local emergency announcements and the Red Cross for the latest shelter openings and hours. https://www.alaskasnewssource.com+1
What officials say about restoration and safety
MEA’s outage resources emphasize there is no single “reset” for the grid. Crews must isolate damage, repair poles and lines and then re-energize feeders in a safe sequence. MEA’s public pages urge members to report outages via the outage map or SmartHub (phone reporting is available at 907-746-7697) and to treat any downed wire as energized and dangerous. Officials caution that broken-pole repairs require larger crews and more time, and that shifting winds can create new damage even as crews make progress. Matanuska Electric Association
Impact and outlook
- Immediate risk: More downed lines and trees while winds continue; hazardous travel and very cold wind chills. National Weather Service
- Near term: Crews will continue around-the-clock shifts where safely possible, but NWS forecasts and the utility’s field reports indicate full restoration may take time in the worst-hit neighborhoods. Matanuska Electric Association+1
- Where to watch: MEA’s live outage map and Facebook feed for restoration updates; the NWS for weather alerts and forecasts; and local emergency management or Red Cross postings for shelter availability. Matanuska Electric Association+2National Weather Service+2
Resources & links
- MEA outage map and reporting: Matanuska Electric Association – Power Outages. Matanuska Electric Association
- NWS Wasilla/Lower Matanuska Valley: High Wind Warning & forecast details. National Weather Service
- Shelter information (American Red Cross / Mat-Su): Glenn Massay Theater at Mat-Su College (8295 E. College Dr., Palmer).
