School delays, remote learning mark first snowstorm of the season

The first snowstorm of the season brought moderate amounts of snow to the Susitna Valley while other areas in the Mat-Su Borough saw snow accumulations of six inches. The snow caused chaos for the morning commute Tuesday and led to multiple delays for schools as well as several schools going to remote learning. But by the time the evening commute came around, most of the main roads were clear thanks to warmer temperatures melting the snow.

People across the area broke out their shovel and snow blowers, while others fired up their snow plows to clear the snow. In Houston, where snow accumulations totaled 12 inches, the Public Works Department were out clearing roads at 3:15 a.m. concentrating on the main roadways, but ran into delays when their primary snowplow broke down.

“We're working as fast as we can with the road grader, backhoe, and F-450. The dump truck and snowplow should be back online late today,” city officials posted on social media Tuesday, feeling the frustration residents undoubtedly felt.

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District had several schools from Big Lake to Talkeetna on remote learning due to the inclement weather, while other schools through the Mat-Su Valley were on a 2-hour delay.

The snow also caused a major power outage to the Big Lake, Meadow Lakes, and Houston areas, with Matanuska Electric Association saying that 4300 members were affected. It was determined that a large spruce tree in the lines and crews safely removed it and restored power within three hours.

Throughout Monday, Alaska State Troopers had logged at least nine different motor vehicle accidents due to the weather and icy roads. None of the accidents cited major injuries or fatalities.

Temperatures warmed after the snow stopped falling Tuesday and Wednesday, causing snow melt with the potential of icing over as temperatures dipped into the teens and 20’s overnight, leaving roadways slick.

More snow and rain is forecasted for Halloween as another storm is set to hit the region. While there are no advisories or warnings yet, early predictions call for the possibility of two to three inches of snow which could cover the icy roads, so drive with caution.

Temperatures are expected in the low to mid 30s for the next several days. Another storm front is also expected for the first weekend in November.