Powerful Storm Churns Toward Alaska, Bringing Blizzard Conditions

NOAA satellite imagery shows the storm system spinning in the Bering Sea, with blizzard warnings in effect for the Western Arctic Coast.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A powerful storm system is making its way toward Alaska, bringing dangerous conditions including blizzard conditions, strong winds, and bitterly cold temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for the Western Arctic Coast, with forecasters warning of very difficult travel conditions and areas of blowing snow that could significantly reduce visibility.

Why it matters

Powerful winter storms in Alaska can have significant impacts on transportation, infrastructure, and the safety of residents, especially in remote coastal communities. This storm highlights the importance of accurate weather forecasting and preparedness efforts to protect Alaskans from the dangers of extreme winter weather.

The details

According to NOAA Satellites, the storm system is churning in the Bering Sea and is expected to bring northeast winds that will increase Tuesday night into Wednesday, ahead of the approaching snowfall. The NWS says the snow is expected to arrive Wednesday night and continue through at least Thursday, with winds slowly weakening once the snow arrives. However, the falling snow is expected to keep visibility low throughout the event.

  • The blizzard warning is in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday for the Western Arctic Coast.
  • Snow is expected to arrive Wednesday night and continue through at least Thursday.

The players

NOAA Satellites

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's satellite division, which closely tracks weather systems and shares imagery and information.

National Weather Service Fairbanks

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued the blizzard warning for the Western Arctic Coast of Alaska.

Cape Lisburne, Point Lay, and Point Hope

Alaskan coastal communities affected by the blizzard warning.

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What they’re saying

“A powerful storm is bringing dangerous seas, blizzard conditions, strong winds and bitterly cold temperatures to Alaska this week.”

— NOAA Satellites (X (social media)

“Northeast winds increase Tuesday night into Wednesday ahead of approaching snowfall. Snow arrives Wednesday night.”

— National Weather Service Fairbanks (NWS statement)

“Winds slowly weaken once the snow arrives, but falling snow is expected to keep visibility low through at least Thursday.”

— National Weather Service Fairbanks (NWS statement)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and warnings as the system moves through the region.

The takeaway

This powerful winter storm in Alaska highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events, which can have significant impacts on transportation, infrastructure, and the safety of residents in remote coastal communities.