Winter Storm Warning Issued for 7 States as Heavy Snow Forecast

National Weather Service alerts span Alaska to Upper Midwest with up to 14 inches of snow expected.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

The National Weather Service has issued winter weather alerts across several states, including Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, as a fast-moving winter system brings the potential for heavy snow and difficult travel conditions through the weekend. The highest snowfall totals of up to 14 inches are forecast for parts of southeast Alaska, while other areas are expected to see 2 to 6 inches of snow.

Why it matters

The winter storm is expected to impact travel and daily activities across a wide swath of the northern U.S., with the potential for rapid snow accumulation, reduced visibility, and hazardous road conditions. The alerts highlight the need for residents to monitor weather conditions and prepare for potential disruptions to their plans.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a variety of winter weather alerts, including winter storm warnings, winter weather advisories, and winter storm watches, across the affected states. In Alaska, the Panhandle region is expected to see the highest snowfall totals, with 11 to 14 inches forecast for the Hyder area and 6 to 12 inches in Juneau. Elsewhere, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota are all expected to see 2 to 6 inches of snow, with the potential for brief periods of heavy snowfall that could lead to rapid accumulation and slick roads.

  • The winter storm warnings and advisories in Alaska are in effect from Saturday through Sunday.
  • The winter weather advisories in the Upper Midwest states are generally in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening.

The players

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States.

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The takeaway

This winter storm serves as a reminder for residents in the affected areas to stay informed about the latest weather conditions, prepare for potential travel disruptions, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the inclement weather.