Background Articles

The article explores how climate change has influenced sled dog genetics, leading to a shift from traditional, thick-coated breeds to leaner, faster dogs better suited for warmer conditions, impacting the tradition of dog mushing in Alaska.

The article recounts the extraordinary 1925 dog sled relay that delivered diphtheria antitoxin to Nome, Alaska, amid a severe epidemic, highlighting the centennial of this historic event and the heroic efforts of mushers and their dogs who braved harsh conditions to save lives.

A storm in Southcentral Alaska recorded peak wind gusts reaching up to 110 mph, causing power outages in Anchorage and the Mat-Su area.

A severe storm hit Anchorage and Mat-Su, causing power outages for thousands due to high winds and rain. Gusts exceeded 100 mph in higher elevations, with significant impacts across the region.

A part of a pedestrian bridge collapsed onto the Seward Highway in Anchorage due to high winds, blocking the highway temporarily, though the bridge's main structure remained intact. No injuries were reported.

An unusually warm January storm with record warmth and hurricane-force winds left Anchorage residents facing extended power outages for four days.

A powerful wind and rain storm in Southcentral Alaska caused widespread power outages and closures, affecting thousands in the Anchorage area.

Alaska is experiencing an unusually low snowfall this winter, discussed by Rick Thoman, an Alaska Climate Specialist, who highlights broader climate trends such as warming and increased precipitation.

A severe winter storm battered Newfoundland and Labrador, leaving thousands without power and causing significant damage along the coastline.

In Nuuk, a large construction crane has collapsed due to a storm, with no reported injuries.

A new Senate report highlights that thawing permafrost is destabilizing northern runways in Canada, posing a threat to aviation safety as climate change impacts critical infrastructure.

Despite reduced overall ice coverage in Canada's Northwest Passage, the Arctic shipping season is shortening due to increased mobility and breakage of sea ice creating navigational hazards.

The Homer City Council has extended the local emergency declaration for Homer Spit, originally issued after significant storm surge damage, and is seeking further state and federal disaster assistance.

A new report reveals a rise in polar bears on land and dangerous travel conditions in Northwest Alaska due to climate change.

A fishing vessel capsized in the Gulf of Alaska during a storm, leaving seven empty survival suits but no sign of the five-member crew.

Russian warships from the Northern Fleet faced significant challenges from sea ice while navigating the Northern Sea Route, despite Russia's development of naval icebreakers.

A cold wave from Siberia and Finland is bringing frigid temperatures to Norway, with conditions falling to minus 25 degrees Celsius in some parts.

In November and December, Western Alaska experiences rapid weather changes due to large-scale atmospheric conditions, with winds causing sudden temperature rises, especially when moving inland from the sea or down from mountains.

A powerful "bomb cyclone" swept across the northwest United States, leading to the deaths of two people, widespread power outages, and significant damage from fallen trees and extreme weather conditions.

An aerial survey of the Kuskokwim River reveals widespread thin ice and large open holes, raising safety concerns for nearby communities.