Sitka Braces for 8 Inches of Snow Through Monday Morning

Winter Weather Advisory in effect as heavy snow hits central Alaska Panhandle

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Sitka, Western Kupreanof Island, and Kuiu Island, with 4 to 8 inches of snow expected from noon today through 9 AM Monday. Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate as roads become snow-covered and slick, especially during the early Monday commute.

Why it matters

Heavy snowfall can create hazardous travel conditions, leading to school and business closures, power outages, and other disruptions for residents in the affected areas. The Sitka region is particularly vulnerable due to its remote location and reliance on transportation links that may be impacted by the storm.

The details

The snow is expected to intensify through the afternoon and continue into the overnight hours, with the heaviest snowfall rates developing this afternoon. Upper elevations and the northern side of Prince of Wales Island could see the highest totals. Colder northerly winds will clash with warmer southerly flow, potentially shifting the snow to a rain-snow mix by early Monday morning and then to plain rain by Monday afternoon as temperatures rise.

  • The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from noon today until 9 AM Monday.
  • The heaviest snowfall is expected this afternoon and continuing into tonight.
  • Roads in Sitka, Kake, Port Alexander, Craig, Klawock, and Wrangell may become snow-covered and slick during the early Monday commute.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather alerts and advisories.

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What’s next

Residents in the affected areas should prepare for the incoming snowstorm by clearing drains, securing outdoor property, and checking road conditions before traveling on Monday morning.

The takeaway

This winter weather event highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for reliable transportation infrastructure in remote Alaskan communities that can be severely impacted by heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions.