BREAKING: Blizzard Warning Issued for Western Arctic Coast, Alaska

TheWkly Analysis

A critical Blizzard Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for the Western Arctic Coast of Alaska, effective from February 5 at 12:34 AM AKST until February 5 at 3:00 PM AKST. This severe weather event is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low visibility, posing immediate threats to life and property. Residents are urged to take precautions and prepare for significant disruptions to daily activities. What It Means For You: • Seek shelter immediately if you are in the affected area; avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. • Expect transportation disruptions, including road closures and flight cancellations; check with local authorities and airlines for updates. • Stock up on essential supplies such as food, water, medications, and batteries; ensure you have important documents accessible. • Peak danger is anticipated between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM AKST; monitor local weather updates closely. • Stay informed through official channels such as the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies for ongoing alerts. Safety Guidance: - If you must go outside, dress in layers and cover all exposed skin to prevent frostbite. However, it is strongly advised to stay indoors during the blizzard. - If you lose power, use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards. Keep your phone charged and have a battery-operated radio for updates. - Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and young children, should have a designated caregiver or family member check on them regularly during the storm. - If you experience an emergency, such as a medical issue or structural damage, contact emergency services only if it is safe to do so. Impact Duration: - The main threat is expected to last approximately 15 hours, with snow accumulation of 12 to 24 inches and wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph. - The warning period runs from 12:34 AM AKST to 3:00 PM AKST, with the most severe conditions expected