Alaska Winter Storm Warning: Up to 3 Feet of Snow Forecast at Isabel Pass

Alaska winter storm warning update for October 20, 2026: The National Weather Service is forecasting up to 3 feet of snow near Isabel Pass in the eastern Alaska Range, raising serious concerns for travel along the Richardson Highway. Heavy snowfall, blowing snow, reduced visibility and rapidly changing road conditions could make mountain travel extremely difficult or even impossible at times. In this Extreme Weather Report, we explain where the heaviest snow is expected, how the storm is affecting Interior Alaska, and why snowfall totals could vary dramatically between nearby communities. ALASKA WINTER STORM — ISABEL PASS The National Weather Service forecasts 24 to 36 inches of snow above 2,500 feet in the eastern Alaska Range, with even higher amounts possible above pass level. Lower elevations could receive 12 to 24 inches. A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the eastern Alaska Range through 4 AM AKDT Thursday, October 22, according to the October 20 advisory. STRONG WINDS AND BLOWING SNOW An earlier October 19 Wind Advisory forecast southerly wind gusts up to 65 mph north of Trims Camp. That advisory expired Monday evening. The October 20 winter storm forecast indicates a shift toward northerly winds, with gusts generally around 20 to 30 mph in the affected mountain areas. Blowing and drifting snow could continue to create dangerous travel conditions. FAIRBANKS AND EASTERN INTERIOR SNOW FORECAST The October 20 National Weather Service forecast includes: Isabel Pass: 24–36 inches at higher elevations Fairbanks, North Pole and Nenana: approximately 4–7 inches Denali Borough: approximately 5–10 inches Much of the Eastern Interior: 6–12 inches or more Tanacross to Dot Lake: locally 12–16 inches possible Northway to the Alcan Border: lower snowfall amounts, with mixed precipitation possible These are forecast totals, not confirmed accumulated snowfall measurements. IN THIS VIDEO We cover: Alaska's October 2026 winter storm Isabel Pass and Richardson Highway travel hazards Winter Storm Warnings across Interior Alaska Blowing snow, mountain winds and reduced visibility Fairbanks snowfall uncertainty Alaska Highway and Taylor Highway winter weather Snowfall differences across the eastern Alaska Range Winter driving safety and official road updates ALASKA TRAVEL SAFETY If you are traveling through affected areas, check the latest National Weather Service warnings and Alaska 511 road reports. Carry warm clothing, food, water, a flashlight and essential winter emergency supplies. Consider postponing unnecessary travel when conditions become dangerous. DISCLAIMER Extreme Weather Report is an independent weather-news channel and is not an official emergency warning service. Weather forecasts and warnings can change rapidly. This video includes forecast information available on October 20, 2026. Forecast snowfall and wind gusts should not be confused with verified observations. Always follow local emergency instructions, official forecasts and road closure notices. Subscribe to Extreme Weather Report for verified reporting on winter storms, hurricanes, floods, severe weather and natural disasters worldwide. Breaking Weather. Global Impact. #AlaskaWinterStorm #AlaskaSnowstorm #ExtremeWeather