A rare summer winter storm brought snow, ice, and freezing winds to Alaska's Central Brooks Range from July 26 to July 27, 2026.
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for critical transportation corridors, including the Dalton Highway.
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Up to 6 inches of snow fell in higher elevations, with widespread accumulations of 2 inches reported.
The advisory covered Atigun Pass, Anaktuvuk Pass, Galbraith Lake, and the Dalton Highway between mile posts 232 and 322.
Hazardous Conditions on the Dalton Highway
Conditions began with rain before transitioning to a wintry mix, snow, and overnight freezing drizzle.
At Anaktuvuk Pass, temperatures dropped to 29 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday night after a daytime high of 40 degrees.
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On Atigun Pass, air temperatures fell to 26 degrees below 5,000 feet, with north wind gusts of 34 mph driving wind chills down to 11 degrees.
Atigun Pass, at 4,739 feet, is the highest year-round maintained pass in Alaska and the only highway crossing across the Brooks Range.
Drivers have no alternative detour routes available. Sub-freezing overnight temperatures turned melted snow into hazardous ice sheets along the mountain grade.
Local forecasters advised drivers to reduce speeds before the grade, maintain extra following distance, brake strictly in straight lines, and check 511 travel reports before attempting the pass.
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High-elevation snow can occur in any month, but severe unseasonal conditions pose unique hazards to summer motorists without snow tires, chains, or winter gear.
