Alert archive / Alaska / High Wind Warnings in 2025

High Wind Warning 19, NWS Anchorage, AK

December 19, 2025Chugach Census Area, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska

NWS Anchorage, AK issued this high wind warning at Dec 19, 2025, 9:27 AM AKST for Chugach Census Area, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska. It took effect at Dec 20, 2025, 6:00 PM AKST. It was in force for 24 hr. 8 reports came from inside the area while it was in force.

The area

The counties it named, with what was reported inside it.

The facts

Issued
Dec 19, 2025, 9:27 AM AKST (18:27 UTC)
In effect from
Dec 20, 2025, 6:00 PM AKST
Expired
Dec 21, 2025, 6:00 PM AKST
In force
24 hr
Issued by
NWS Anchorage, AK

Counties Chugach Census Area, AK, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK

The radar

The Kenai radar (PAHG), 209 km from the middle of the area, began a volume at 18:27 UTC, the scan nearest the moment this went out.

Open the radar archive at this moment

The archived warnings, watches and discussions in force at that minute are drawn over the scan, this one among them.

What was reported inside it

TimeReportWhereRemark
Dec 20, 6:25 PM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 63Valdez, AKValdez airport recorded a sustained wind of 43 mph with a gust to 63 mph at 6:25pm on 12/20. Winds generally became elevated around 11:30am 12/20, and remained elevated through 2:45pm 12/21.
Dec 20, 10:45 PM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 63Wasilla, AKEW9414 Wasilla recorded a sustained wind of 30 mph with a gust to 63 mph at 10:45PM 12/20. The station consistently reported wind gusts of at least 50 mph from this observation to 4:30AM 12/21.
Dec 21, 4:20 AM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 68Palmer, AKWeather station at Parks Glenn Highway Interchange. Clocked a sustained wind of 42 mph with a gust of 68 mph at 4:20AM 12/21. Winds consistently gusted to at least 50 mph from 8:40PM 12/20 to 9:10AM 12/21.
Dec 21, 5:00 AM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 71Palmer, AKPAAQ recorded/measured a sustained wind of 47 mph and a gust to 71 mph at 5AM 12/21.
Dec 21, 5:17 AM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 78Palmer, AKCorrects previous non-tstm wnd gst report from Palmer. PAAQ recorded/measured a sustained wind of 47 mph and a gust to 78 mph at 5:17AM 12/21. Starting at 8:35PM 12/20, PAAQ consistently gusted to at least 50 mph through 5:20pm 12/21.
Dec 21, 5:20 AM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 65Palmer, AKWeather station PTFA2 at Parks Glenn Highway Interchange. Recorded a sustained wind of 40 mph and a gust to 65 mph at 5:20AM 12/21. Winds consistently gusted to at least 50 mph from 4:50PM 12/20 through 6:50AM 12/21.
Dec 21, 8:02 AM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 60Valdez, AKNDBCVDXA2 recorded a sustained wind of 26 mph with a gust to 60 mph at 8:02am 12/21. Elevated winds began as early as 5AM 12/21, remaining elevated through 4PM 12/21, with gusts generally anywhere from 20 to 50 mph.
Dec 21, 2:20 PM AKSTNON-TSTM WND GST 73Thompson Pass, AKThompson Pass FAA recorded a SUSTAINED wind of 73 mph at 2:20pm 12/21. Winds consistently stayed elevated from 6:50pm 12/20 to 5:20pm 12/21.

Local storm reports filed while the alert was in force, from inside its polygon or its counties.

The nearest sounding before it

Anchorage Iap/Pt. Campbe, (PANC), launched 12:00Z, 6.5 hours before the alert went out and 121 km from the middle of its area. This is the routine balloon launch nearest before it, the air the forecaster had in hand, not a measurement taken for the alert.

Skew-T log-pSkew-T log-p diagram, Anchorage Iap/Pt. Campbe, at 12:00Z on 2025-12-19Temperature and dew point through the depth of the atmosphere, with the mixed-layer parcel. CAPE 0 joules per kilogram.LCL10008507005003002001001 km2 km3 km6 km9 km12 km15 km-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Temperature in red, dew point in green, the mixed-layer parcel dashed.
HodographHodograph, Anchorage Iap/Pt. Campbe, at 12:00Z on 2025-12-19The wind through the lowest 10 kilometers. Zero to 1 km storm-relative helicity 47 square meters per square second.19395878Sfc1 km3 km6 km9 kmRMLM
The wind turning with height, colored by layer: ground to 1 km, 1 to 3 km, 3 to 6 km, 6 to 10 km.
Mixed-layer CAPE
0 J/kg
Mixed-layer CIN
No buoyant parcel
Mixed-layer LCL
1783 m above ground
0-6 km bulk shear
42 kt
0-1 km storm-relative helicity
47 m²/s²
0-3 km storm-relative helicity
101 m²/s²
Significant tornado parameter
0.0
Supercell composite
0.0

Open this sounding in Storm Lab

The text

As transmitted.

687 
WWAK71 PAFC 191827
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
927 AM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

AKZ731-201515-
/O.UPG.PAFC.HW.A.0010.251220T2100Z-251222T0000Z/
/O.NEW.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
927 AM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO NOON AKST 
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 25 to 45 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Valdez.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  night through early Sunday morning. Winds will slowly diminish 
  through Sunday but will remain gusty.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ732-201515-
/O.UPG.PAFC.HW.A.0010.251220T2100Z-251222T0600Z/
/O.NEW.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
927 AM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO 6 PM AKST 
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 40 to 55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  night through Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through the day 
  Sunday but will remain gusty at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ711-201515-
/O.UPG.PAFC.HW.A.0010.251221T0000Z-251222T0000Z/
/O.NEW.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Big Lake, Wasilla, and Palmer
927 AM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO NOON AKST 
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  evening through early Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through 
  the day Sunday but will remain gusty at times. Dry conditions and 
  strong winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid 
  outdoor burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

DAN
6 follow-up statements
673 
WWAK71 PAFC 192247
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
147 PM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

AKZ711-201515-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Big Lake, Wasilla, and Palmer
147 PM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO NOON 
AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  evening through early Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through 
  the day Sunday but will remain gusty at times. Dry conditions and 
  strong winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid 
  outdoor burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ731-201515-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
147 PM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO NOON 
AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 25 to 45 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Valdez.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  night through early Sunday morning. Winds will slowly diminish 
  through Sunday but will remain gusty.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ732-201515-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
147 PM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM SATURDAY TO 6 PM 
AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 40 to 55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is Saturday 
  night through Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through the day 
  Sunday but will remain gusty at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

DAN
775 
WWAK71 PAFC 201242
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
342 AM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

AKZ711-210215-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Big Lake, Palmer, and Wasilla
342 AM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 
NOON AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts from 60 to 75 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from this 
  evening through early Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through 
  the day Sunday but will remain gusty at times. Dry conditions and 
  strong winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid 
  outdoor burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ731-210215-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
342 AM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 
NOON AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 25 to 45 mph with gusts from 60 to 75 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Valdez.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from 
  tonight through early Sunday morning. Winds will slowly diminish 
  through Sunday but will remain gusty.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ732-210215-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
342 AM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 
PM AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 40 to 55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 6 PM AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile 
  vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from 
  tonight through Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through the 
  day Sunday but will remain gusty at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ701-210215-
/O.NEW.PAFC.WI.Y.0005.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Anchorage-
Including the cities of Eklutna, Eagle River, and Anchorage
342 AM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO NOON AKST 
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...North winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 55 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Northwest Anchorage.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Strong and gusty winds will pick up quickly 
  this evening into tonight across mainly northern and western parts 
  of the Anchorage area.  Winds will rapidly weaken Sunday morning 
  and fully diminish Sunday afternoon. Dry conditions and strong 
  winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid outdoor 
  burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Winds this strong can make driving 
difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

&&

$$

Shriver
167 
WWAK71 PAFC 202354
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
254 PM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

AKZ711-211500-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Palmer, Wasilla, and Big Lake
254 PM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 
NOON AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from this 
  evening through early Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through 
  the day Sunday but will remain gusty at times. Dry conditions and 
  strong winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid 
  outdoor burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ731-211500-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
254 PM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 
NOON AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 25 to 45 mph with gusts from 60 to 75 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Valdez.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from 
  tonight through early Sunday morning. Winds will slowly diminish 
  through Sunday but will remain gusty.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ732-211500-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.251221T0300Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
254 PM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 
PM AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 40 to 55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 6 PM AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile 
  vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The window for strongest winds is from 
  tonight through Sunday morning. Winds will diminish through the 
  day Sunday but will remain gusty at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ701-211500-
/O.CON.PAFC.WI.Y.0005.251221T0300Z-251221T2100Z/
Anchorage-
Including the cities of Eklutna, Anchorage, and Eagle River
254 PM AKST Sat Dec 20 2025

...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO NOON 
AKST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...North winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 55 mph 
  expected.

* WHERE...Northwest Anchorage.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon AKST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Strong and gusty winds will pick up quickly 
  this evening into tonight across mainly northern and western parts 
  of the Anchorage area.  Winds will rapidly weaken Sunday morning 
  and fully diminish Sunday afternoon. Dry conditions and strong 
  winds will lead to increased fire weather concerns. Avoid outdoor 
  burning and any activity that will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high 
profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

&&

$$

AM
743 
WWAK71 PAFC 211240
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
340 AM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

AKZ711-212100-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Big Lake, Palmer, and Wasilla
340 AM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON AKST TODAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts from 60 to 70 mph 
  occurring.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...Until noon AKST today.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The strongest winds are peaking and will 
  steadily begin to weaken later this morning. Winds will continue 
  to diminish through the day but will remain gusty at times. Dry 
  conditions and strong winds will lead to increased fire weather 
  concerns. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that will produce 
  a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ731-212100-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
340 AM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON AKST TODAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 25 to 45 mph with gusts from 60 to 75 mph 
  occurring.

* WHERE...Valdez.

* WHEN...Until noon AKST today.

* IMPACTS...High winds may move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Winds have peaked overnight and will slowly 
  diminish throughout the day today, but winds could remain gusty 
  into this evening.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ732-212115-
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
340 AM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM AKST THIS 
EVENING...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 40 to 55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph 
  occurring.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...Until 6 PM AKST this evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile 
  vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Winds will slowly diminish through this 
  evening, but winds will remain gusty at times through Monday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Use caution if you must drive.

&&

$$

AKZ701-212100-
/O.CON.PAFC.WI.Y.0005.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
Anchorage-
Including the cities of Eagle River, Anchorage, and Eklutna
340 AM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON AKST TODAY...

* WHAT...North winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 50 mph 
  occurring.

* WHERE...Northwest Anchorage.

* WHEN...Until noon AKST today.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few 
  power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Strong winds have already peaked overnight 
  across northern and western parts of the Anchorage area.  Winds 
  will rapidly weaken this morning and fully diminish this 
  afternoon. Dry conditions and strong winds will lead to increased 
  fire weather concerns. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that 
  will produce a spark.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Winds this strong can make driving 
difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

&&

$$

Shriver
994 
WWAK71 PAFC 212105
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

AKZ711-220300-
/O.EXP.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
/O.NEW.PAFC.WI.Y.0006.251221T2105Z-251222T0300Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Palmer, Wasilla, and Big Lake
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM AKST THIS EVENING...
...HIGH WIND WARNING HAS EXPIRED...

* WHAT...North winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph.

* WHERE...Lower Matanuska Valley.

* WHEN...Until 6 PM AKST this evening.

* IMPACTS...High winds could move loose debris, damage property, and 
  cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for 
  high profile vehicles. Increased fire weather concerns due to dry 
  conditions and strong winds.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Winds will slowly diminish through this 
  evening.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high 
profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

&&

$$

AKZ731-212215-
/O.EXP.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
Valdez-
Including the cities of Valdez
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING HAS EXPIRED...

Winds have diminished below warning criteria. 

$$

AKZ701-212215-
/O.EXP.PAFC.WI.Y.0005.000000T0000Z-251221T2100Z/
Anchorage-
Including the cities of Eagle River, Eklutna, and Anchorage
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...WIND ADVISORY HAS EXPIRED...

Winds have dropped below advisory criteria. 

$$

AKZ732-220515-
/O.NEW.PAFC.CW.Y.0008.251222T0000Z-251223T2000Z/
/O.CON.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251222T0300Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM AKST THIS 
EVENING...
...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM AKST TUESDAY...

* WHAT...For the High Wind Warning, north winds 25 to 35 mph with 
  gusts up to 60 mph. For the Cold Weather Advisory, very cold wind 
  chills as low as 45 below expected.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...For the High Wind Warning, until 6 PM AKST this evening. 
  For the Cold Weather Advisory, until 11 AM AKST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile 
  vehicles.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Winds will slowly diminish through this 
  evening, but winds will remain gusty at times through Monday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around 
or damaged by the wind. Prepare for the possibility of widespread 
power outages. Use caution if you must drive.

Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a 
hat, and gloves.

&&

$$

AKZ741>744-749>751-220515-
/O.NEW.PAFC.CW.Y.0008.251222T0000Z-251223T2000Z/
Northern Copper Valley-Western Copper Valley-Central Copper
Valley-Ernestine-Southern Copper Valley-Tok Cutoff-McCarthy-
Including the cities of McCarthy, Nebesna, 46 Mile, Mentasta
Lake, Paxson, Gakona, Copper Center, Slana, Tolsona, Nelchina,
Tonsina, Kenny Lake, Chitina, Mendeltna, Glennallen, and
Chistochina
1205 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM AKST TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 59 below expected.

* WHERE...Copper River Basin.

* WHEN...Until 11 AM AKST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 60 below zero 
  could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 5 minutes. 
  Frostbite and hypothermia are likely if exposed to these 
  temperatures. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with 
  prolonged exposure. Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia 
  with prolonged exposure.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a 
hat, and gloves.

&&

$$

Mitchell
055 
WWAK71 PAFC 220252
NPWAER

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
552 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

AKZ732-232000-
/O.EXP.PAFC.HW.W.0019.000000T0000Z-251222T0300Z/
/O.CON.PAFC.CW.Y.0008.000000T0000Z-251223T2000Z/
Thompson Pass-
Including the cities of Thompson Pass
552 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM AKST 
TUESDAY...
...HIGH WIND WARNING WILL EXPIRE AT 6 PM AKST THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 45 below.

* WHERE...Thompson Pass.

* WHEN...Until 11 AM AKST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 45 below zero 
  could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. 
  Frostbite and hypothermia are likely if exposed to these 
  temperatures. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with 
  prolonged exposure. Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia 
  with prolonged exposure.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Per the expiring High Wind Warning: wind 
  gusts continue, but will diminish progressively overnight.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a 
hat, and gloves.

&&

$$

AKZ711-220400-
/O.EXP.PAFC.WI.Y.0006.000000T0000Z-251222T0300Z/
Lower Matanuska Valley-
Including the cities of Palmer, Big Lake, and Wasilla
552 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...WIND ADVISORY WILL EXPIRE AT 6 PM AKST THIS EVENING...

Winds will continue to diminish overnight.

$$

AKZ741>744-749>751-232000-
/O.CON.PAFC.CW.Y.0008.000000T0000Z-251223T2000Z/
Northern Copper Valley-Western Copper Valley-Central Copper
Valley-Ernestine-Southern Copper Valley-Tok Cutoff-McCarthy-
Including the cities of Tolsona, Tonsina, Chitina, 46 Mile,
Glennallen, Mendeltna, Copper Center, Kenny Lake, Slana,
Nelchina, Nebesna, Mentasta Lake, Paxson, Gakona, McCarthy, and
Chistochina
552 PM AKST Sun Dec 21 2025

...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM AKST 
TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 60 below.

* WHERE...Copper River Basin.

* WHEN...Until 11 AM AKST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 60 below zero 
  could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 5 minutes. 
  Frostbite and hypothermia are likely if exposed to these 
  temperatures. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with 
  prolonged exposure. Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia 
  with prolonged exposure.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a 
hat, and gloves.

&&

$$

AB

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before this high wind warning went out, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Anchorage, AK wrote its last area forecast discussion before this high wind warning went out at Dec 19, 4:58 AM AKST, 4 hours 29 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Dec 19, 4:58 AM AKST, 4 hours 29 minutes before
Southcentral and Southwest Alaska Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Anchorage AK
458 AM AKST Fri Dec 19 2025

.SHORT TERM FORECAST SOUTHCENTRAL ALASKA (Days 1 through 3)...

Key Message:
Winds will increase again this weekend, especially through the
Matanuska Valley, Thompson Pass, and Valdez. Gusty conditions
could also make it into North/West Anchorage.

We are now in the third week of this same cold, dry and windy
pattern which is increasing winds every few days as short waves
drive stronger winds aloft toward the surface. This means that for
the third weekend in a row there will be strong winds in the
Matanuska Valley and Valdez where there are high wind watches in
effect for parts of this coming weekend. The good news for the
Matanuska Valley, is that winds do not appear likely to reach the
same magnitude as either of the past two weekends. At this time,
it looks likely that maximum wind gusts will reach speeds of 65 to
75 mph as opposed to the 90 mph+ that occurred the past two
weekends. In addition, the duration should be shorter with the
warning level winds expected from Saturday afternoon to Sunday
afternoon. Even so, 65 to 75 mph winds are quite strong, so
prepare for winds of this magnitude for this third weekend in a
row.

Valdez to Thompson Pass is the other location that is under a High
Wind Watch for this weekend. While winds remain gusty there today,
this is the reprieve in the high winds before they increase again
Saturday into Sunday night.

ANother area of interest will be the Copper River Basin for the
potential for a significant drop in temperatures or wind chills
for the early part of next week. For the next two days the ambient
temperature will drop into the 20 to 30 below zero range when the
wind is not blowing and then increase instantly when some wind
mixes out the inversion some. However, the resulting wind chills
will be close to what the ambient temperature was. By Sunday
night, the winds should have diminished as even colder air moves
into the region which may drop temperatures to 40 below which
could even approach 50 below in the colder areas of the Basin for
Monday and Tuesday.

&&

.SHORT TERM FORECAST SOUTHWEST ALASKA/BERING SEA/ALEUTIANS
(Days 1 through 3: Today through Sunday)...

A seemingly unbreakable upper level ridge continues to dominate
the synoptic picture across the Bering Sea this morning. This
strong area of high pressure is helping divert incoming systems
from the North Pacific away from the region, favoring a prevailing
low track well to the north and west of the region. One of such
lows is moving north along the Kamchatka Peninsula, with a
trailing gale force front extending out into the southwest corner
of the Bering. Areas of stratus and fog are continuing to drift
across portions of the Bering and Aleutians as moisture in the
marine layer steadily builds up under the strong inversion and
warm air aloft anchored under the strong blocking ridge. Across
Southwest, northwest flow continues between the ridge to the west
and a trough centered over Northwest Canada. Areas of low cloud
cover and fog have spread from the Bering into parts of the
Kuskokwim Delta overnight, with some pockets of freezing drizzle
also affecting the area. A shortwave trough riding along the
corridor of strong northwesterlies is pushing into Southwest from
the western Interior, helping light snow to spread south into much
of the Lower Kuskokwim Valley. Along the AKPen, gusty northwest
gap winds of varying intensity perpetuate.

In terms of the outlook through the weekend, not much change is
expected in terms of the large scale pattern. The front currently
entering the western Bering will move northwest and weaken as it
moves across the northern half of the Bering, bringing some
slightly increased winds and rain/snow showers to the Pribilofs as
it brushes past late Saturday into Sunday morning. The front will
later reach the Kuskokwim Delta Coast Sunday afternoon, likely
bringing in a round of light snow to the Kuskokwim Delta before
the front fully shears apart. Otherwise, expect a steady cooling
trend and continued dry conditions across most of Southwest
through Sunday as Arctic air steadily builds in from the Interior.
Along the AKPen, gusty gap winds will continue through the
weekend as strong northwest flow holds firm in place.

By the end of the weekend, a new shortwave and attendant surface
low will round the crest of the upper ridge, spreading southwest
winds up to gale force range across much of the central and
western Bering through Sunday night. This system will have a
good chance to bring more accumulating snow to western parts of
Southwest as heads into the West Coast early next week.

-AS

.LONG TERM FORECAST (Days 4 through 7: Monday through
Thursday)...

Strong high pressure continues to be situated over the North
Pacific and extend north into the Bering Sea. Influences from weak
low pressure systems may work to keep the Gulf of Alaska
relatively unsettled. There continues to be good agreement that a
shortwave trough diving south across Southcentral Alaska this
weekend leads to another period of enhanced winds. As a result,
there is some potential for high winds through typical areas,
including the Matanuska Valley and the Valdez area/Thompson Pass
into early next workweek. Temperatures remain below average
across Southcentral Alaska, with the coldest area being the Copper
River Basin, where ambient temperatures will hover in the range
of 20 to 40 below zero. Southwest Alaska, however, will see
warmer, somewhat moist air ride up and over the ridge, bringing
increased potential for precipitation. A series of low pressure
systems track up the coast of Far Eastern Russia toward Western
Alaska through mid-week. This increases chances for precipitation
in Southwest Alaska Sunday onward. Precipitation is likely to be
mostly snow, though liquid precipitation is possible along the
coast and is increasingly likely southward along the Alaska
Peninsula. Southcentral Alaska looks to remain mostly dry and
downsloped in northwesterly flow, though chances for some light
snow to make it past the Alaska Range increase for Tuesday night
and Wednesday as low pressure potentially tracks into the Gulf
from Southwest Alaska.

&&

.AVIATION...

PANC...VFR conditions and light winds will persist.

&&

The office that day

Everything else NWS Anchorage, AK issued on the same UTC day.

IssuedProductOfficeCountiesLasted
Dec 18, 3:17 PM AKSTGale WarningAFC37 hr
Dec 19, 3:54 AM AKSTGale WarningAFC11 hr
Dec 19, 3:54 AM AKSTSmall Craft AdvisoryAFC11 hr
Dec 19, 3:55 AM AKSTGale WarningAFC11 hr
Dec 19, 2:34 PM AKSTSmall Craft AdvisoryAFC36 hr
Dec 19, 2:35 PM AKSTGale WarningAFC49 hr
Dec 19, 2:38 PM AKSTGale WarningAFC13 hr
Dec 19, 2:38 PM AKSTSmall Craft AdvisoryAFC13 hr
Dec 19, 2:38 PM AKSTHeavy Freezing Spray WarningAFC13 hr

Nearby

High Wind Warnings in Alaska, 2025Every high wind warning in 2025

Sources

The product and its follow-ups from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center text; local storm reports from the same archive; the sounding from the Mesonet's radiosonde archive; radar from the NEXRAD Level II archive.