Winter Weather Warnings Issued as Heavy Snow and Freeze Alerts Spread Across U.S.

Winter weather warnings are in effect across parts of Alaska and the Midwest as a major cold snap sweeps the country. The National Weather Service (NWS) says some areas could see up to 10 inches of snow, while others face frost and freeze conditions that could damage crops and outdoor plumbing.

Officials issued the alerts on Tuesday morning, warning travelers and residents to prepare for hazardous road conditions, strong winds, and freezing overnight temperatures. The warnings impact Alaska’s Atigun Pass and large parts of Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Snowfall and Freeze Alerts Explained

The NWS said Atigun Pass in northern Alaska could receive between 5 and 10 inches of snow, with winds gusting as high as 55 miles per hour. These conditions could reduce visibility to as low as half a mile at times, creating dangerous driving conditions.

“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” the NWS warned. The alert is active until Thursday morning, with officials advising travelers to delay trips if possible. Commuters on Wednesday could face significant delays due to blowing snow and icy roads.

In the Midwest, freeze warnings and frost advisories have been issued for multiple states. Portions of Wisconsin could see temperatures drop into the mid-20s, while parts of Minnesota and North Dakota may fall to around 24 degrees. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is expected to hit lows near 28, and central Wyoming could dip to the mid-20s as well. Eastern Idaho’s Magic Valley region could also see overnight temperatures near 27 degrees.

These cold conditions could kill unprotected crops and damage outdoor pipes. Gardeners and homeowners have been advised to cover sensitive plants and prepare outdoor plumbing for freezing weather.

How Residents Are Preparing

Local NWS offices have been posting updates on social media urging caution. In Duluth, Minnesota, forecasters said temperatures would remain cool through Wednesday before a slight warm-up heading into the weekend. Fairbanks, Alaska, officials warned drivers about potentially “very strong” winds and whiteout conditions.

Farmers and gardeners across the Midwest are preparing for the early-season cold snap, which could impact late-season harvests. Meanwhile, Alaska drivers are being urged to pack emergency supplies as heavy snow and strong winds increase the risk of travel delays or becoming stranded.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts closely as winter weather warnings remain in place. The NWS will continue to update advisories throughout the week as conditions change.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How much snow is expected in Alaska?

Up to 10 inches of snow is expected in Alaska’s Atigun Pass, along with strong winds and low visibility.

Q2: Which Midwest states are under freeze warnings?

Parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, and Idaho are under frost or freeze alerts.

Q3: How cold will it get in the Midwest?

Some areas could see temperatures drop into the mid-20s, with parts of Minnesota and North Dakota expected to hit around 24 degrees.

Q4: When will the alerts end?

The Alaska snow warning is in effect until Thursday morning, while most Midwest freeze alerts end Wednesday morning.

Q5: How should residents prepare?

Travelers should check road conditions, and homeowners should cover plants and protect outdoor pipes from freezing.