Glenn Highway @ MP 35.2 | Alaska 511
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
A powerful winter storm continues to impact the Mat-Su Valley, causing widespread power outages, hazardous road conditions, and structural damage across the region. Businesses and residents are working through the aftermath while utility crews continue restoration efforts.
Settlers Bay Lodge
Settlers Bay Lodge announced on its Facebook page that it will close beginning Saturday, December 6, due to storm damage. Staff thanked customers for their patience and support and said they will reopen as soon as repairs allow. The lodge urged the community to stay warm and safe while high winds remain in the area.
Central Landfill
The Matanuska Susitna Borough Solid Waste Division reported that the Central Landfill is closed today due to high winds. Conditions will be reevaluated, and the site will reopen when it is safe for both staff and the public.
Talkeetna Transfer Station
The Talkeetna Transfer Station is also closed for the day. The Solid Waste Division confirmed the closure is due to high winds and loss of power.
Walmart Wasilla
Walmart has officially confirmed its closure. According to the store’s Facebook page, the Wasilla Walmart is closed until further notice due to severe weather. In two announcements, the store stated:
“Due to higher winds, your Wasilla Walmart is currently closed. We apologize for the inconvenience. Please stay safe.”
and
“Our store is closed until further notice due to poor weather. Take care. We will be back soon.”
This follows a morning of social media posts showing apparent roof damage. Walmart has not publicly commented on the extent of structural impacts or when repairs may begin.
High Winds and Weather Forecast
The National Weather Service has issued the following alerts for Alaska as of Saturday, December 6, 2025:
- Matanuska Valley: High Wind Warning in effect until 11:00 p.m. Sunday. Sustained northeast winds of 30–40 mph with gusts up to 80 mph.
- Anchorage and northwest Kenai Peninsula: Wind Advisory until 11:00 p.m. Sunday. North winds 20–30 mph, gusts up to 50 mph, strongest near coasts and the Knik Arm.
- Southwest Alaska and the Pribilof Islands: High Wind Warnings and Watches in effect. Gusts of 75–90 mph possible due to a major storm system in the Bering Sea.
Officials warn that these winds can move debris, damage property, cause power outages, and reduce visibility on roads. Blowing snow and drifting snow will make travel hazardous in affected areas. Cold temperatures combined with strong winds also increase the risk of frostbite.
High winds are expected to begin easing late tonight, with gusts gradually dropping after midnight. Some elevated gusts may persist into early Saturday morning, but calmer conditions should settle in by midday, allowing safer access for line crews and road maintenance teams.
Widespread Power Outages
The Matanuska Electric Association reports significant outages across the Valley. Crews are working through downed lines, damaged poles, fallen trees, and drifting snow. Residents are urged to report outages and hazards to MEA at 907-746-7697 or through their SmartHub account. Prepare for outages that may last into the weekend.
