Winter Weather — Copper River Basin, Alaska

2023-03-17 · Copper River Basin, Alaska

Event narrative

DOT reported 10 inches new snow in Tonsina. Meanwhile, the 511 webpage noted very difficult road conditions from MM 42 to 82 along the Richardson Hwy due to heavy snow, wind, blowing snow, drifting snow, icy patches, and reduced visibility.

Wider weather episode

An upper-level trough and embedded low overspread much of mainland Alaska, while a series of shortwaves rotated through the trough. At the surface, an attendant low and its front, extended from near Kodiak Island and out along the Southcentral coast. As a result, widespread (heavy) snow showers persisted along the Southcentral coastal regions and gusty winds blanketed the Gulf of Alaska, Prince William Sound, and areas north towards the Copper River Basin.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1105213. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.