Winter Storm Brings Heavy Snow, Wind to Alaska, New York, and Washington

Up to 12 inches of snow and 60 mph winds forecast, creating hazardous travel conditions

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories for parts of Alaska, New York, and Washington as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to the affected areas through Thursday and into Friday. Snowfall totals could reach up to 12 inches in some locations, accompanied by winds gusting up to 60 mph, which will likely make travel very difficult and hazardous.

Why it matters

This winter storm is a significant weather event that could disrupt transportation, cause power outages, and create dangerous conditions for residents in the impacted regions. The heavy snow and high winds pose risks to public safety and could have economic impacts as well, particularly for businesses and industries that rely on reliable travel and transportation.

The details

In Alaska, communities in Sitka, Prince of Wales Island, Juneau, Unalaska, Dutch Harbor, Nikolski, and Atka are all expected to see substantial snowfall, with totals ranging from 3 to 12 inches. Winds could reach up to 60 mph, reducing visibility to less than a mile in some areas. In New York, Wayne, northern Cayuga, and Oswego Counties could see up to 2 inches of snow, leading to slippery roads and rapidly changing conditions. In Washington, the Cascades of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, and northern King Counties could receive up to 12 inches of snow, with the highest amounts in the backcountry areas.

  • The winter weather advisories are in effect from Thursday through Friday, with some areas seeing impacts lasting into Saturday.
  • The heaviest snowfall and strongest winds are expected on Thursday, with conditions gradually improving on Friday.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

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

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Hazardous conditions could affect the Thursday morning and evening commutes.”

— National Weather Service

“Travel is discouraged until conditions improve.”

— National Weather Service

“Residents should prepare for slippery roads—especially during the morning commute—and rapidly changing road conditions and visibility.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on the evolving weather conditions and potential impacts. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed, prepare for the inclement weather, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible.

The takeaway

This powerful winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for severe weather events, which can disrupt daily life and pose risks to public safety. By heeding weather warnings and taking appropriate precautions, communities can better mitigate the potential impacts of such storms.