Snowstorm drops up to 8 inches on Atigun Pass, snarling Dalton travel

A mid-June snowstorm is dumping 4 to 8 inches across the Central Brooks Range through Monday evening, with wind gusts up to 30 mph at Atigun Pass creating blowing snow and reduced visibility, the National Weather Service reported.

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Central Brooks Range until 10 p.m. Monday. The heaviest snow is falling across the southern Arctic Plains and northern slopes of the Brooks Range. At Atigun Pass, gusty winds are leading to areas of blowing snow that could significantly reduce visibility.

NWS forecasters warned that travel conditions would be difficult. Scattered snow showers are expected to continue with highs in the mid-30s and southeast winds up to 15 mph.

The advisory instructs travelers to slow down and use caution while traveling. Current road conditions are available at 511.alaska.gov or by calling 5-1-1.

Atigun Pass and the Dalton Highway corridor function as a primary overland freight route between Fairbanks and the North Slope oil fields. Early-summer snow events can temporarily disrupt the peak supply season for industrial operations and remote communities.