Borough braces for 3rd winter storm

Just as residents plowed and shoveled their way out of the incredible snowfall on Sunday, the National Weather Service has issued another winter storm warning for the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys.

The warnings, upgraded from advisories early Tuesday evening, are forecasting 6 to 14 inches of new snow beginning during the Wednesday evening commute and lasting until Thursday morning.

For the Susitna Valley, the heaviest snow is expected east of the Parks Highway and south of Talkeetna. As for the Matanuska Valley, Highest snowfall amounts near Wasilla west and southwest and along higher elevations. A wintry mix, including freezing rain is possible along the Knik River Valley into Palmer after midnight. Residents and drivers should expect ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch or less.

As drivers have experienced, whether the snow is wet and heavy, or fluffy and light, road conditions can be unpredictable and hazardous. For those who must traverse the roads, the Matanuska Susitna Borough suggests keeping an emergency supply kit that includes jumper cables, flares, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks, as well as a full tank of gas. If drivers do become stuck, stay in the vehicles.

Plan on slippery road conditions during this newest winter storm. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute.

Weather forecasts are currently showing that snow will taper off after this latest front, but temperatures will dip down into single digits, then hitting subzero temperatures heading into the weekend.

For more weather information, visit www.weather.gov

For winter storm preparedness information, visit www.ready.matsugov.us/pages/severe-weather