Late-season winter storm batters Alaska, Montana, Maine, New Hampshire and Oregon, prompting widespread NWS warnings
Late-winter storm alerts
On March 5, 2026, the National Weather Service issued winter-weather warnings and advisories across parts of Alaska, Montana, Maine, New Hampshire and Oregon.
“The National Weather Service has issued winter weather warnings and advisories for several states amid a persistent late-winter pattern delivering heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous travel conditions in early March 2026”
A late-winter storm brought heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous travel conditions to multiple regions.
Forecasters characterized the system as part of a late-winter pattern that threatened localized heavy snowfall and dangerous driving conditions, prompting official alerts and public cautions.
Winter storm impacts by state
Southeast Alaska was forecast to receive 4–10 inches, with bursts up to 1 inch per hour affecting areas from Glacier Bay and eastern Chichagof Island to Cape Fairweather and Juneau.
Montana’s higher elevations and northern plains faced several-inch totals that could complicate mountain passes and rural roads.
Maine and New Hampshire, still recovering from February nor’easters, were expected to see 4–8 inches in spots with blowing snow and near-blizzard visibility.
Oregon’s Cascades were forecast for 6–10 inches above 4,000 feet, with rain-to-wet-snow transitions at lower elevations.
March storm overview
The storm followed a turbulent start to March that included an Alberta Clipper on March 1 and lingering flash-freeze risks.
“The National Weather Service has issued winter weather warnings and advisories for several states amid a persistent late-winter pattern delivering heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous travel conditions in early March 2026”
It came on the heels of February's "Blizzard of 2026," which produced severe impacts across the Northeast.
Forecasters noted lingering cold despite the start of meteorological spring and cited weakening La Niña influences, warning of potential continued power disruptions and hazardous travel as the system moved through.
Storm travel warnings
Authorities and forecasters emphasized travel precautions and readiness for localized heavy snow, strong gusts, and rapid changes in conditions, especially at higher elevations and along coastal Alaska and New England corridors.
They urged motorists to prepare for slick roads, limited visibility, and the possibility of power outages as the storm progressed.
Key Takeaways
- NWS issued winter warnings and advisories for Alaska, Montana, Maine, New Hampshire and Oregon.
- Storm produced heavy snow and strong winds across those states.
- Forecasters warned of persistent late-winter pattern causing hazardous travel.
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