weather

Much of Southcentral Alaska has seen warmer-than-average temperatures and meager snowfall this winter. Meteorologists say it's primarily driven by storms to the west.

A downed high voltage line in Sterling on top of smaller outages kept power out longer in that area.

The conditions are expected to make travel difficult. The agency says to watch for slippery roads and says drivers should slow down and use caution while traveling.

Forecasters are predicting colder-than-normal temperatures for the central Kenai Peninsula this winter. The prediction is driven by recent weather patterns in the Pacific Ocean.

Because of climate change and an expected shift in weather patterns, scientists say it’s difficult to predict this summer’s forecast with accuracy.

Areas most prone to avalanches are those under steep slopes, which is where many summertime hiking trails on or near the Kenai Peninsula are located.

As a result of high winds Sunday and Monday, Homer Electric Association customers experienced power outages throughout the Kenai Peninsula. A spokesperson for the utility company says over 5,000 outages were reported.

Forecasters predict that the Kenai area will experience higher temperatures and normal to less precipitation this winter. Factors taken into consideration include climate trends and this year's El Niño pattern.

Many across the central peninsula were surprised to see snowy conditions outside Thursday morning. Area grocery shoppers shared their thoughts about the unexpected snowfall and their anticipations for the coming winter.

Windy conditions continue to cause power outages across the central Kenai Peninsula. Communities from Nikiski to Clam Gulch are affected.