A blizzard warning covers Alaska’s central and eastern Beaufort Sea coast, including Prudhoe Bay, Deadhorse and the Dalton Highway north of milepost 387, until 6 a.m. Alaska time Wednesday, Nov. 11. The National Weather Service in Fairbanks forecasts wind gusts up to 55 mph and periods when blowing snow cuts visibility to a quarter mile or less.
The warning also covers Nuiqsut, Kaktovik, Kuparuk, Alpine, Point Thomson and Flaxman Island. Forecasters expect up to 4 inches of snow. They say the worst visibility is most likely as steadier snow moves through Tuesday and Tuesday night. Strong winds could also cause power outages.
Drivers heading toward Deadhorse should check Alaska 511 before leaving. The warning identifies where whiteouts are possible. Alaska 511 lists current road restrictions and closures. The weather service advises anyone who must travel to bring a winter survival kit and to stay with their vehicle if stranded.
The Dalton runs 414 miles from Livengood to Deadhorse, according to the Bureau of Land Management. The blizzard warning applies near its northern end. Cell service is sparse along the route, so check the road report before entering stretches with limited coverage.
The North Slope warning is separate from the blizzard warning at Thompson Pass, near Valdez. The two notices cover different roads and expire at different times.
