U.S. Snow Report Today

Snow Returns to Mountain West as Arctic Alaska Braces for Significant Accumulation

A modest pulse of snowfall has dusted select mountain locations across the Lower 48 over the past day, while Alaska's North Slope prepares for what could be the most significant snowfall event in the nation over the next 48 hours. Washington's Cascade Range and Colorado's San Juan Mountains have recorded 2 inches of new snow at remote observation sites, providing a welcome refresh to late-season snowpack. However, the real story is unfolding in the Arctic, where a potent weather system is forecast to deliver 6 inches to Imnaviat Creek, with additional accumulations expected at Atigun Pass and near Prudhoe Bay, accompanied by challenging visibility and freezing fog conditions.

In the Pacific Northwest, Sawmill Ridge in Washington's central Cascades reported 2 inches of new snow despite maintaining a robust 170-inch base depth, though afternoon haze and potential thunderstorms suggest a transition toward warmer, unstable air masses. This modest addition does little to alter the overall snowpack picture but demonstrates lingering winter conditions at higher elevations. Meanwhile, Colorado's Vallecito station in the San Juans also collected 2 inches from recent storm activity, though the meager 3-inch base reveals the advanced state of spring melt at this location.

Thunderstorm potential in both regions indicates these may be wet, heavy snow events rather than the light, fluffy powder snow enthusiasts typically covet.

The most compelling developments are occurring along Alaska's Dalton Highway corridor and North Slope, where a cold front is forecast to deliver meaningful accumulation. Imnavait Creek leads the forecast with 6 inches expected, while Atigun Pass—the highest road pass in Alaska and a critical transportation link—anticipates 4 inches amid areas of freezing fog that will create treacherous driving conditions. Even Prudhoe Bay, situated on the Arctic Ocean coast with typically minimal snowfall this time of year, could see 2 inches with mixed rain and snow.

The combination of fresh snow, reduced visibility from fog, and sub-freezing temperatures will create classic Arctic bluster conditions that challenge both infrastructure and outdoor operations. For snow researchers and enthusiasts tracking late-season accumulation patterns, Alaska's North Slope represents the nation's most active and impactful snowfall zone through midweek.