Much of Southcentral enjoyed sunshine over the last couple days. Our sunny run has come to an end, however, as a low pressure system gathers strength south of the Alaska Peninsula and slowly moves north. This low will reach peak intensity this afternoon, then stall out and gradually weaken through the weekend. Rain will be moderate at times in Kodiak and, later today, PWS. Otherwise, rain totals should remain fairly light.
A separate disturbance will begin scattered rain showers to SE. The Interior will see partial sunshine this afternoon with chilly temperatures. Snow is expected for the Slope with an inch or two possible. Highs will be in the 40s to near 50 in SE and upper 20s and 30s for the Interior and Slope.
One of the rainiest areas of the state will be Bristol Bay. Strong winds to 55 mph from the SE will blow over the Alaska Peninsula, Kodiak Island, and the SW coast, including Bristol Bay, later today into tonight. Highs will be in the 40s and lows will drop into the 30s. Most locales will remain above freezing, so rain will be the primary threat, not snow. Snow may mix with rain in the early morning hours.
As the front associated with the low moves north over the Gulf and into Southcentral, rain will increase in coverage and intensity. Winds will become gusty this evening and overnight through Turnagain Arm and Kachemak Bay. Gusts will approach 50 mph at times. However, in Anchorage and the Valley, these strong SE winds will descend off the Chugach Mountains, keeping the air mass relatively dry. Any moisture will fall as sprinkles or flurries through the weekend. Mostly cloudy to cloudy skies will remain in the forecast. Highs will be in the 30s and 40s.
