Anchorage, AK (March 7, 2026) – Heavy snowfall during the Friday evening, March 6, commute led to numerous crashes along a stretch of the Seward Highway in Anchorage, prompting officials to urge drivers to avoid the area.
According to the Anchorage Police Department, multiple accidents were reported between 36th Avenue and Huffman Road, a span of roughly 5.5 miles. The police spokesperson, Amanda Brimanis, said around 4 p.m. that motorists should seek alternate routes and drive cautiously due to hazardous conditions.
Authorities reported 23 crashes since noon, as heavy snow and strong winds created dangerous travel conditions. Responders were seen diverting traffic off the highway at Dowling Road while crews worked to manage the scenes.
Drivers reported several clusters of multi-vehicle collisions along the southbound side of the highway, particularly between O’Malley Road and Tudor Road. Witnesses said some vehicles were overturned, while others had spun out or slid into ditches.
The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for the Anchorage and Wasilla region through early Saturday morning, forecasting 3 to 5 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 30 mph. Blowing snow and reduced visibility were expected to make travel difficult, especially during the evening commute.
Authorities are urging drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
Our thoughts are with those involved.
Winter Weather and Highway Crash Risks
Snow and ice can dramatically reduce traction, making it difficult for drivers to stop or maintain control of their vehicles. When visibility is also reduced due to blowing snow, the risk of chain-reaction crashes increases.
Highways with heavy commuter traffic can quickly become hazardous when vehicles begin sliding or braking suddenly. Safety officials recommend reducing speed, leaving extra distance between vehicles, and using winter tires when driving in snowy conditions.
