Moving to the Matanuska Valley brings with it beautiful mountain vistas, large lots covered in birch and spruce, quiet neighborhoods and pristine wilderness settings. Often, we neglect to mention the dreaded MATANUSKA WIND! The photo is of Engstom Road just yesterday taken from my junker Toyota truck as I was on my way to a 1PM appointment. Click on it to see the wind blowing over the snowberm.
This wind starts at the headwaters of the Matanuska Valley right at the Matanuska Glacier and gradually picks up speed as the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains funnel it right into Palmer and Wasilla. After hitting the main part of the valley it spreads and diminishes.
This isn’t a constant wind, it usually lasts a few days and and then calms down again. I’m sure this isn’t scientific, but I have become accustomed to expecting the wind within a day or two of a fresh snowfall. However, we have had so many snowfalls this winter that I haven’t been able to keep track of this rule.
