Winter Storm Warnings in Juneau, Alaska
Juneau sits in a narrow coastal corridor hemmed in by the Tongass National Forest and the Gastineau Channel, a geography that funnels moisture-laden Pacific air directly into the mountains above the city. The result is one of the heaviest urban snowfall climates in the United States. Across the 13 winters analyzed from 2012 through 2024, Juneau averaged 297.7 inches (756.3 cm) of snow per year — a figure that dwarfs most other American cities and shapes how the National Weather Service calibrates warning thresholds here.
The core of the snow season runs through January, December, and February, the three months that historically deliver the deepest accumulations. On average, Juneau sees roughly 11 heavy-snow days per year, with about 1 to 2 truly extreme days annually when snowfall intensity becomes operationally disruptive. Average winter lows hover near 24.1 °F (−4.4 °C), cold enough to sustain snowpack but also close to the freezing mark, meaning rain-snow transitions and heavy wet snow are common hazards.
A Winter Storm Warning issued for Juneau signals that severe winter conditions are imminent and travel may become dangerous or impossible. It is important to understand that warning thresholds are not uniform across the country — the criteria applied in Southeast Alaska reflect local climatology and differ significantly from those used in the Lower 48. When a warning is posted here, residents should take it seriously regardless of how the snowfall totals might compare to other regions.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 297.7 in (756.3 cm) |
| Snowiest months | January, December, February |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 24.1°F (−4.4°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 11 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Juneau within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Juneau winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Juneau right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Juneau, Alaska. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Juneau get winter storm warnings often?
Juneau sees heavy snow routinely, and winter storm warnings are a regular feature of its winters. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Juneau?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own. Juneau sits at the snowier end of that scale, so local criteria are correspondingly higher.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Juneau?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Alaska authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Fairbanks, AK
- Winter storm warning in Bellingham, WA
- Winter storm warning in Anchorage, AK
- Winter storm warning in Seattle, WA
- Winter storm warning in Tacoma, WA
- Winter storm warning in Portland, OR
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.