Winter storm warning brings up to 14 inches of snow to the Noatak Valley through Saturday

The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has issued a winter storm warning for the Noatak Valley and the south slopes of the Western Brooks Range, in effect until 10 am Saturday, Oct. 10. The weather service says travel there could be very difficult.

Forecasters expect 10 to 14 inches of snow in areas of elevation, with wind gusts as high as 45 mph. Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, according to the warning, which took effect at midnight Thursday.

The warning area includes Noatak, Red Dog Mine and Walker Lake, according to the weather service's warning summary. The agency advises anyone who must travel to carry an extra flashlight, food and water in case of an emergency.

There are no roads into Noatak National Preserve, according to the National Park Service. Winter access is by aircraft, snowmachine or on foot, and commercial flights to the region's villages depend on the weather.

The village of Noatak has no road connection either. Its airport is the only way fuel, groceries and other goods reach the community, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Because the Noatak River is eroding toward the runway, the state plans to move the airport about 2 miles west.