Full Breakdown
Heavy Snowstorm Impacts Juneau and Southeast Alaska
1/6/2026, 1:54:42 AM
Anticipated Snowfall and Weather Conditions
A significant winter storm is forecasted to impact Juneau and the surrounding Southeast Alaska region, with the National Weather Service predicting snowfall accumulations between 5 to 13 inches on Monday, January 5, 2026. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall starting midday, with the heaviest precipitation occurring from mid-morning through the afternoon. Meteorologist Greg Spann noted that while some areas may receive substantial snow, others could see little to no accumulation, highlighting the variability in snowfall across the region.
School and Government Closures
In response to the impending storm, the Juneau School District announced the cancellation of classes and after-school activities for Monday. Additionally, municipal and state offices will remain closed, and the University of Alaska Southeast will operate remotely. These closures are part of a broader effort to ensure public safety as residents continue to recover from the previous week's storm, which resulted in record snowfalls of up to 50 inches in a five-day period.
Ongoing Recovery Efforts
The community is still grappling with the aftermath of last week's storm, which set a record for December with a total of 82 inches of snow. Local officials have reported numerous challenges as residents work to clear snow and manage the impacts on infrastructure. The Nugget Mall and several other businesses have closed indefinitely due to concerns about snow loads on roofs. City officials are urging residents to assist in keeping fire hydrants and storm drains clear to facilitate snow removal efforts.
Weather Advisory and Safety Recommendations
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Juneau, effective from 3 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm to allow snow removal teams to operate safely. Wind gusts of up to 30 miles per hour are expected, which could create blizzard-like conditions and reduce visibility. Spann has also indicated that there may be a transition to rain or a rain-snow mix later on Monday, before returning to snow on Tuesday.
Future Weather Outlook
Looking ahead, additional snow is anticipated later in the week, with forecasts suggesting that another system could bring further accumulation. The extended forecast indicates that light to moderate snow and rain may continue through the weekend, contributing to ongoing challenges for the community as it recovers from consecutive winter storms.
Official Statements & Responses
City and Borough of Juneau officials have emphasized the importance of public safety during this weather event, encouraging residents to stay off the roads. "CBJ encourages all residents to stay off the roads for their safety and the safety of others," stated a bulletin issued by the city.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While forecasts indicate varying snowfall amounts across different areas, there is some discrepancy regarding the total expected accumulation, with some reports suggesting totals could reach as high as 14 inches in certain locations. This variability underscores the challenges in predicting weather patterns in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “One part of Juneau might get three inches or four inches of new snow out of a new snow shower,” — Greg Spann, National Weather Service Meteorologist
- “Heaviest snowfall rates are expected through Monday morning and into the afternoon,” — National Weather Service Forecast
- “CBJ encourages all residents to stay off the roads for their safety and the safety of others, and to allow snow removal teams to do their work as safely and efficiently as possible,” — City and Borough of Juneau Bulletin
