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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the True North Brief Weather Desk. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Winter weather alerts cover a broad corridor from Alaska through Colorado, with wind chills near –40°C in northern Alaska and heavy snow warnings exceeding 30 cm in Colorado’s high country as of late January 2025. These alerts signal dangerous travel and exposure risks.
What are the current winter weather alerts for Alaska and Colorado?
Alaska’s Interior and Arctic coast are under extreme cold warnings, with temperatures dropping to –35°C to –45°C and wind chills reaching –50°C. In Colorado, winter storm warnings are active for the central and southern Rockies, including the San Juan Mountains, where snow accumulations of 20–40 cm are expected above 2,500 metres. Avalanche warnings are also in effect for backcountry zones in both states.
How long will these conditions last?
The Arctic blast in Alaska is forecast to persist through the weekend, with a slight moderation early next week. Colorado’s snow event is driven by a Pacific trough and should taper by Friday evening, though lingering cold air will keep temperatures 5–10°C below seasonal norms into the weekend.
Are these alerts related to the polar vortex?
Yes. A lobe of the polar vortex has displaced southward over Alaska and western Canada, pushing Arctic air into the northern Rockies. This pattern often triggers the extreme cold seen in Alaska and the heavy snow in Colorado.
Should I travel to Colorado ski resorts this week?
Travel is possible but check road conditions on I-70 and US-550. Chain laws are likely in the high passes. Resorts will operate, but wind chill and reduced visibility may limit chairlift operations above treeline.
How do Alaska winter alerts compare to Canada’s?
Alaska’s extreme cold warnings mirror those in Yukon and Northwest Territories, where Environment Canada issues similar alerts for wind chills below –40°C. Colorado’s snow warnings are akin to B.C. interior mountain alerts.
For ongoing updates on Canadian conditions, visit our Canada weather hub or check the latest weather warnings across Canada.