Blizzard — Bristol Bay, Alaska

2021-12-08 to 2021-12-10 · Bristol Bay, Alaska

Event narrative

Koliganek recorded winds of 39G52 mph and heavy snow with 1/4 sm visibility. Platinum and Cape Newenham airports reported frequent low visibilities of 1/2SM or less with winds to 35-53 mph in combination with moderate to heavy snow for a span of 12 hours. Similar conditions were recorded at Dillingham. Due to these conditions, power was knocked out, trees were toppled and phone service was cut off for about a week:https://www.kdlg.org/energy/2021-12-13/power-restored-to-nushagak-cooperatives-service-area-after-nearly-a-week-of-repairs.

Wider weather episode

A north to south oriented frontal boundary brought periods of heavy snow, avalanche conditions, lowered visibilities, high winds and strong surf from west to east over the course of several days as the front shifted slowly east and developed into a triple point low over the western Gulf. Strong upper level dynamics and a deep moisture fetch made this an impactful storm for southern Alaska.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1007232. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.