Winter storm warnings are in effect as up to 9 inches of snow is forecast across parts of three states from Sunday, January 11 through Monday, January 12, with the National Weather Service warning that travel could become “extremely dangerous.”
States Most Affected
Maine, Michigan, and Alaska are expected to see the greatest impacts from these winter conditions.
Maine
Forecasters expect 6 to 9 inches of snow in northeast and northwest Aroostook County, as well as northern Piscataquis and northern Somerset counties, beginning Sunday morning and continuing into early Monday.
The National Weather Service advises that a winter storm warning for snow means severe winter weather is likely to make travel “extremely dangerous.”
Michigan
In Cheboygan and Presque Isle counties, conditions may include up to 1 inch of snow along with winds around 30 mph through mid-Sunday morning.
Alaska
Multiple parts of Alaska are also under warning as snow and wind combine to reduce visibility and complicate travel.
- Areas including the Chatanika River Valley, Fairbanks metro, Goldstream Valley, Nenana Hills, Nenana, and the Tanana Flats could see up to 7 inches, with the Nenana Hills potentially reaching 10 inches in spots through Monday morning.
- Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, and blowing snow could cut visibility to under a mile, creating very difficult driving conditions.
- Summit areas along the Dalton Highway and parts of the northern Denali Borough (including stretches of the Parks Highway, especially between Cantwell and Nenana) could pick up around 8 inches with wind gusts up to 45 mph, sharply reducing visibility.
- The Central Interior may receive 2 to 5 inches with winds near 35 mph through Monday morning, while the Klondike Highway could see up to 8 inches through Sunday morning.
Safety Tips During a Winter Storm Warning
The National Weather Service notes that winter storms can be deadly, with fatalities each year linked to cold exposure, vehicle crashes, and fires caused by unsafe heating practices.
Heavy snow can also bring down trees, strain roofs, and damage power lines—sometimes leading to localized power outages. Blowing snow may create near–whiteout conditions that increase crash risk.
If You’re Staying Indoors
- Keep a flashlight and extra batteries ready in case the power goes out
- Stock water, first-aid supplies, and high-energy foods (like dried fruit, nuts, and energy bars)
- Ensure pets and livestock have shelter, food, and water
If You Must Drive
Carry a winter storm survival kit, including:
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Flashlight + extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- High-calorie food and water
- Extra clothing
- A sack of sand (for traction)
- A shovel
