As twinkling lights and festive ribbons began to adorn Skagway, Old Man Winter and Mother Nature unleashed a cold front that left much of Southeast Alaska in chills.
According to the National Weather Service in Juneau, temperatures took a dive beginning on December 19, falling into the single digit range. The community remained below 10 degrees through Christmas eve – a span of six days.
With the arrival of the harsh winter weather, meteorologists have said conditions were prime for an “Alaskan winter wonderland” and also dangerous life-threatening conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Juneau issued a detailed outlook for the month, saying a surge of snow, bitter cold and gusty winds could be prevalent.
NWS officials also issued several cold weather tips to help residents stay safe, including dressing in layered clothing, insulated boots, and windproof outerwear. Wind chills in the area feel 30-40 degrees lower than the reported temperatures.
They also reminded residents to make sure their vehicle were prepared by ensuring antifreeze levels are adequate, keeping fuel tanks at least half full, and carrying a winter emergency kit (blanket, snacks, flashlight, shovel, etc.).
Residents were also urged to stay informed. The town’s Emergency Operations Center will issue realtime updates via the Skagway Alert mobile app and local radio station, and to have battery-powered chargers and flashlights on hand.
After the Christmas week, the forecast eases as a milder ridge of high pressure is expected to move in by early January. The high pressure ridge will allow slightly warmer temperatures (mid 20s) and drier conditions.
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