Blizzard Warning Issued for Alaska as 13 Inches of Snow, 65 mph Winds Loom
Punxsutawney Phil prognosticated six more weeks of winter, but even the fortune-telling groundhog didn't anticipate winter weather this deep into April.
A number of states like California and Nevada along the Sierra Mountains have received several feet of snow in recent days. This week, Colorado, Wyoming and Montana are also being hit by strong winter storms bringing heavy snow.
As hump day draws to a close, the National Weather Service issued an updated forecast with a blizzard warning for Alaska and heavy snow warning for the Northern Rockies.
Blizzard Warning as 13 Inches of Snow, 65 mph Winds Hit
Alaska received a blizzard warning that remains in effect through Friday morning.
The high end snowfall estimates call for up to 13 inches of snow in the region with five to nine inches of snow the most likely forecast as of Wednesday night. The combination of heavy snow and 65 mph winds in the forecast forced the National Weather Service to issue a blizzard warning.
It also issued a travel warning for those in the region, suggesting travel should be limited to emergencies only. "If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle," the NWS said.
Northern Rockies Preparing for More Than a Foot of Snow
Elsewhere in the United States, more than a foot of snow could be coming.
"A potent upper-trough and strong surface frontal system from the Pacific is forecast to bring snow, severe weather, heavy rainfall, and a threat for wildfires from the western to central U.S. through the end of the week," the National Weather Service said.
"Snow is expected for the northern Rockies into Thursday and Friday, with totals of 6-12"+ likely for the higher terrain. The upper-trough and cold front will reach the northern/central Plains Tonight, with the potential for some thunderstorms."
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This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 1:00 AM.