Blizzard in Western Arctic Coast, Alaska

Blizzard conditions developed after midnight on March 20th at Cape Lisburne (PALU). Strong east to northeast winds with gusts to 71 mph were reported, accompanied by visibility in blowing snow of less than a quarter of mile. Conditions improved during the afternoon hours.

Strong high pressure built south across the Arctic Coast from a 1048 mb high 400 NM north of the Arctic Coast. This high pressure tightened the pressure gradient along the coast resulting in strong east to northeast winds developing, in particular along the western Arctic coast. Widespread areas of blowing snow accompanied the winds with blizzard conditions developing.