Blizzard — Central Beaufort Sea Coast, Alaska

2025-12-11 to 2025-12-12 · Central Beaufort Sea Coast, Alaska

Event narrative

Blizzard criteria was met at the Nuiqsut ASOS (PAQT) at 0253 on 12/12/25 and continued for more than 3 continuous hours. Wind gusts were reported above 50 mph and with visibilities less than 1/4 miles. Additionally, the Deadhorse ASOS (PASC) also reported meeting blizzard criteria between the hours of 0825 and 1153 on 12/12/25, with peak wind gusts between 56 to 60 kts and visibilities less than 1/4 miles.

Wider weather episode

A Siberian low moving from west to east across the Arctic Coast brought heavy snow, strong winds, and cold temperatures to much of the North Slope, the northern Seward Peninsula, and Kotzebue Sound. Widespread blizzard conditions developed when falling snow and strong winds coincided, in addition to ground blizzards in areas where there was significant amounts of blowable snow. Impacts included highway closures, whiteout conditions, and very strong wind gusts.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1306312. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.