Deep Freeze Grips Anchorage as New Inflation Data Released

Anchorage is holding tight to winter as an intense cold snap continues to blanket the city and much of Alaska.

Historic Cold Settles In

Forecasters say temperatures in Anchorage have dropped below zero overnight this week, with daytime highs struggling to climb into the teens. The cold is part of a broader statewide freeze that has pushed some Interior communities to 40 below or colder.

Clear skies have kept conditions dry in Southcentral, but brisk winds in surrounding areas are adding to the chill. Meteorologists describe this stretch as unusually cold for early March, with gradual warming expected by the weekend.

Cold, Dry Pattern Continues

A strong high-pressure system remains parked over much of the state, locking in cold and dry air across Anchorage. While Southeast Alaska continues to see snow showers, Anchorage is expected to stay mostly sunny but frigid through the end of the week.

Officials encourage residents to watch for frostbite risks during early morning hours and to check on vehicles and heating systems as the deep freeze lingers.

Inflation Ticks Up in Anchorage Area

Newly released federal data shows prices in the Anchorage area rose 0.3 percent over the past two months. Compared with a year ago, overall prices are up 1.5 percent.

Food costs posted a modest increase, while energy prices declined over the most recent two-month period. Over the year, however, energy costs are higher. The report covers the Anchorage and Mat-Su areas and reflects broad price trends rather than specific neighborhood differences.

Another inflation update for the Anchorage area is scheduled for release in mid-May.

Sources

https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/03/12/deep-cold-freezes-alaska/
https://www.webcenterfairbanks.com/2026/03/10/high-pressure-will-keep-cold-dry-air-place-across-state-with-ongoing-snow-showers-southeast/
https://www.bls.gov/regions/west/news-release/2026/consumerpriceindex_anchorage_20260311.htm