Avalanche in Central Brooks Range, Alaska

Alaska DOT reported on the 511 site that numerous avalanches had occurred through Atigun pass resulting in closure of the Dalton Highway. During the time of the event the Chandalar Shelf mesonet site was reporting several hours of 30 to 40 mph wind gusts leading to extra snow loading in the area.

A series of three strong low pressure centers moved northward through the Bearing with the last one pushing a strong cold front into the interior. These storms resulted in heavy snowfall across western and northern Alaska with a mix of snow a freezing rain throughout the interior. Strong winds also occurred creating blizzard conditions across several communities over the course of five days.