Blizzard in Eastern Beaufort Sea Coast, Alaska

Blizzard conditions were reported at both Point Thompson (PAAD) and Barter Island (PABA) starting during the morning hours of December 19th. At both locations the visibility remained at or below 1/4 mile as northeasterly winds consistently gusted to between 40 and 50 mph for approximately 15 hours. Heavy snowfall was also reported resulting in considerable blowing snow across the region.

As upper ridging built north throughout Alaska, a series of disturbances tracked east across the North Slope. These disturbances brough a rapid increase in westerly winds as well as periods of heavy snow. As a result, areas along the northeast Arctic coastline saw blizzard conditions return just a few days after a prior blizzard had hit the area.