Freezing rain advisory in place through Thursday evening

MATANUSKA VALLEY — The National Weather Service has issued a forecast for more sideways driving on local roadways through Thursday evening.

A freezing rain advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m., Thursday and includes the Matanuska Valley cities of Chickaloon, Palmer, Sutton and Wasilla.

Mat-Su Borough School District officials will begin working with Alaska State Troopers, Wasilla and Palmer police departments, state of Alaska Road Maintenance Department, and district personnel or bus drivers who have driven area roads early Thursday morning to determine whether schools will be open for classes.

According to the district’s website, evaluation of the roads will begin around 2 to 3 a.m. with an announcement coming as soon after 5 a.m. as possible.

“Parents are the primary guardians and caregivers of their children. I encourage you to use your judgment to determine what is best for your child,” Superintendent Deena M. Paramo wrote in a letter explaining the school closure process to parents.

The district drew the ire of some parents and community members after it opted to hold classes despite a similar freezing rain advisory about two weeks ago.

A mid-morning warm up Nov. 22 turned snow to rain and Matanuska Valley roads into a dangerous mix of skating rink and parking lot. Traffic on roadways was snarled for much of the day while Alaska State Troopers and Emergency Services Personnel cleared the roads of stranded vehicles. Troopers said they responded to about 300 calls for help that Friday from vehicles in distress.

The weather service says to expect up to one-tenth of an inch of ice accumulation.

“Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving,” the weather service cautions.