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The LEO Network is a worldwide network of observers and experts that share their observations of environmental change.
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Observations

'Stunning' 47-foot fin whale washes ashore near Anchorage's Westchester Lagoon
A 47-foot fin whale washed ashore near Anchorage's Westchester Lagoon. Biologists believe it is a young female and are investigating the cause of its beaching.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Alaska Public Media

India’s capital chokes as air pollution levels hit 50 times the safe limit
Authorities in New Delhi shut schools, halted construction and banned nonessential trucks from entering the city after air pollution shot up to its worst level this season.
New Delhi, NCT, India
Anchorage Daily News

Alaska's total commercial salmon harvest this year was ultra-low in both quantity and value
Alaska's 2024 commercial salmon harvest was among the lowest since records began and offered the lowest inflation-adjusted value to harvesters since 1975.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States
KTUU

Erosion from high surf and wind leave Homer Spit Road damaged
Homer Spit Road sustained damage from high tides and winds, prompting short-term repairs and highlighting the need for long-term erosion control measures.
Homer, Alaska, United States
Anchorage Daily News

Washington confirms second case of chronic wasting disease
A second case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been confirmed in Washington, detected in a white-tailed deer in Spokane County. This follows the first case earlier in the year.
Spokane County, Washington, United States
Spokesman.com

Feral rabbits have taken over the grounds of an Anchorage elementary school
A feral rabbit population has exploded on the grounds of Aquarian Charter School in Anchorage, causing landscaping damage and distractions for students. City officials plan to use live traps to address the issue.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Anchorage Daily News

Tractor almost taken off the sea in storm: "Now winter is coming"
A severe storm in Finnmark led to multiple warnings for wind gusts, snow, and high water levels, causing significant damage including a tractor nearly swept to sea and a pier destroyed.
Finnmark, Norway
NRK

Sandhill crane straggler spotted at Creamer's Field
A lone sandhill crane has been observed staying at Creamer's Field in Fairbanks well beyond the typical migration period. The crane appears healthy but risks survival challenges due to the approaching winter.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

All public services decommissioned and shut down: Newtok's end is imminent
Newtok faces imminent shutdown due to severe infrastructure risks and erosion, with remaining residents relocating to temporary homes in Mertarvik.
Newtok, Alaska, United States
Alaska Public Media

Avian flu has been confirmed in Canada. What does that mean for you?
A teenager remains in hospital with avian flu, according to British Columbia's top doctor. On Tuesday, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said the teen is suffering from severe respiratory distress. On Wednesday, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed it as avian flu — the first case of its kind in Canada. Henry said it's very likely that the B.C. teen's infection took place due to an exposure to either a sick animal or something in the environment.
British Columbia, Canada
CBC

Annual bald eagle survey low for this time of year
A lower-than-usual number of bald eagles has been counted in the Chilkat and Chilkoot river areas, attributed to poor salmon returns affecting eagle distribution.
Haines, Alaska, United States
Chilkat Valley News

Scientists discover volcano-like structure in Arctic Ocean off Alaska
Scientists aboard a U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker have discovered an unusual volcano-like structure in the Arctic Ocean, potentially emitting gas and rising 500 meters from the seafloor.
Arctic Ocean
Alaska Public Media

Bees swarming
Unusual bee swarming behavior observed in East Burke, Vermont, with 50 to 100 hives affected by extreme temperature fluctuations.
East Burke, Vermont, United States

Bird flu in B.C.: Teen infected with H5N1 stable but remains critically ill
A teenager in British Columbia has tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza and remains in critical condition, with health officials unable to identify the source of exposure despite extensive contact tracing.
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver Sun

'We expected snow here'- Record November heat in the North
Kirkenes, Norway experiences unprecedented November heat, leading to canceled winter attractions and concerns from climate experts.
Kirkenes, Finnmark, Norway
The Barents Observer

Kodiak handles record rainy day
Kodiak experienced a record-breaking rainfall on November 8, with 3.42 inches surpassing the previous record from 1985. Despite the heavy rain, which contributed to a significant monthly rainfall, no significant flooding occurred.
Kodiak, Alaska, United States
Kodiak Daily Mirror

Orcas spotted in Penn Cove for the first time in over five decades
The Orca Conservancy said the sightings made history. Some whale watchers hope it will again raise awareness of the need to protect them.
Oak Harbor, Washington, United States

VIDEO: Chum salmon make triumphant return to B.C. creek for 1st time in 75 years
Chum salmon have returned to Chilliwack Creek in British Columbia for the first time in 75 years, thanks to a riparian restoration project led by local First Nations.
Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
Lake Cowichan Gazette

While not yet official, Mount Fuji gets its trademark snowcap after the longest delay in 130 years
Snow arrived at Mount Fuji more than a month after it normally would, after setting a record for the most-delayed snowfall in 130 years.
Mt Fuji, Japan

Death toll from Spanish floods tops 200 as shock turns to anger and frustration
The damage from the storm Tuesday and Wednesday recalled the aftermath of a tsunami, with survivors left to pick up the pieces as they mourn loved ones lost in Spain’s deadliest natural disaster in living memory. Many streets were still blocked by piled-up vehicles and debris, in some cases trapping residents in their homes. Some places still don’t have electricity, running water, or stable telephone connections.
Valencia, Valencia, Spain
Associated Press

Halloween storm turns Anchorage streets into 'liquid banana peel,' meteorologist says
A "wintry mix" of snow and rain through Friday morning produced slick conditions for trick-or-treaters in Alaska's largest city. It was a record setting snow fall for the day.
Chris Klint, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

This unusual fox keeps being spotted in Yellowknife
Some have dubbed the creature Anubis, referring to the ancient Egyptian god usually depicted as a canine or a man with a canine head.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
CBC

Whitehorse digs out after another heavy dump of October snow
The Yukon capital was already buried under a thick blanket of autumn snow at the start of the week. Then residents woke to another big dump on Wednesday.
Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
CBC

Human skull washed up in Kotzebue last month is ancient, village officials say
A human skull found in Kotzebue in October is ancient, with officials confirming it is not contemporary. The skull was discovered in an area formerly used as a burial site. Since the recent flooding, police said they received three reports of remains washing up on shore in the Kotzebue area.
Kotzebue, Alaska, United States

Orcas revive 'dead salmon hat' trend from the 1980s
Researchers in Washington reported observing orcas in Puget Sound balancing salmon on their heads, a behavior not seen in decades.
Puget Sound, Washington, United States
Vancouver Sun

Two Bears Are Shot In Building on HPR
A brown bear and one of her two cubs were shot and killed by a Sitka resident early Thursday after the animals entered into a storage building in the 4200 block of Halibut Point Road, in the vicinity of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, and were trying to get into freezers.
Sitka, Alaska, United States

After rescue, eagle in the Chilkat Valley tests positive for avian flu
A bald eagle rescued in Haines, Alaska, tested positive for avian flu after being taken to the Alaska Raptor Center. The flu, affecting birds across the state, also raises concerns for domestic poultry and public health.
Haines, Alaska, United States
Chilkat Valley News

Finnish Lapland hit by 30-year autumn warm spell
Temperatures reached a high of 11.2 degrees Celsius in Kilpisjärvi on Friday, compared to a high of -1.7 degrees on the same day last year.
Kilpisjärvi, Lapland, Finland

High winds cause erosion and flooding in region
Nome Public Schools were closed on Monday. Bering Air did not fly on Monday and canceled or delayed flights on Tuesday morning. Alaska Airlines canceled its evening flights for Sunday and Monday but flew as scheduled the morning flights.
Nome, Alaska, United States
The Nome Nugget

A record breaking snow storm?
In this case, the weather models were showing a strong push of cold air coming out of the Yukon, a push of warm air coming up from the south and a low spinning up from the Gulf of Alaska.
Haines, Alaska, United States
Chilkat Valley News

Sunny dry day in Chugach Mountains
A typically snowy region, Valdez experienced an unusually dry October with receding snow lines and a dry riverbed.
Valdez, Alaska, United States
Wilson Justin, Richard L Thoman Jr, Matthew Druckenmiller, Crane Johnson

Jellyfish Invasion Raises Dog Safety Concerns
The storm event on October 21st brought an invasion of jellyfish to flooded areas. Eating jellyfishis thought to have resulted in one dog fatality, raising concerns for pet owners across Kotzebue.
Kotzebue, Alaska, United States
Jacqualine Schaeffer, Laurie Meythaler-Mullins, Gay Sheffield, Tom Okey

Fall 2024 Storm Exposed Coastal Permafrost
A severe fall storm in 2024 exposed coastal permafrost in Kotzebue, revealing ice layers previously covered by clay or plants and raising concerns about increased melting and environmental contamination.
Kotzebue, Alaska, United States
Jacquelyn Overbeck, Alexander Kholodov, Susan Tessier, Vladimir Romanovsky, Anna Liljedahl

High winds cause erosion and flooding in region
A storm system with high winds and significant flooding impacted western Alaska, causing damage and disruptions in several communities.
Western Alaska, United States
The Nome Nugget

The Chukotka village of Rytkuchi was flooded by a surge wave due to a strong storm
Во вторник, 22 октября, в селе Рыткучи городского округа Певек из-за шторма начался подъём уровня воды. В результате подтопления двух многоквартирных домов пришлось расселить 45 человек. В целях безопасности в населённом пункте отключили электричество, сообщает ИА "Чукотка".
Рыткучи, Чаунский район, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia

Storm Submerges Kotzebue
A record storm caused extensive flooding in Kotzebue, Alaska, submerging the town and prompting community concern and relief efforts.
Anna Liljedahl , Jacqualine Schaeffer, Richard L Thoman Jr, Gemini

Fall storm damages houses in Kotzebue and Northwest Alaska villages
A severe fall storm caused significant damage in Kotzebue, Alaska, with high winds and rising water levels leading to airport inaccessibility, disrupted flights, and emergency declarations.

Believe they could have saved more of the 190 reindeer that went through the ice with the right equipment
Nearly 190 reindeer perished after falling through thin ice in Finnmark, revealing a lack of proper rescue equipment and the need for better emergency preparedness in reindeer herding communities.
Kautokeino, Finnmark Fylke, Norway
NRK

Juneau water levels recede after moderate Mendenhall Lake and River glacial outburst
The National Weather Service has canceled a flood warning issued Saturday as waters continue to recede Monday morning.
Juneau, Alaska, United States
Adelyn Baxter, KTOO - Juneau and Clarise Larson, KTOO - Juneau

‘A beautiful thing’: Klamath River salmon are spotted far upstream in Oregon after dam removal
Less than two months after the removal of dams restored a free-flowing Klamath River, salmon have made their way upstream to begin spawning and have been spotted in Oregon for the first time in more than a century.
Klamath, California, United States
Los Angeles Times

Fox Attacks House Cat
A fox attack on a house cat in Kotzebue, Alaska, raises concerns about unusual wildlife behavior, potentially linked to diseases like rabies or avian influenza, and highlights the importance of disease prevention and wildlife management.
Russell Cameron , Kimberlee Beckmen, Gemini

Where did the amphibians go?
A local Trinidad and Tobago resident reports an unusual absence of toads and frogs during the rainy season, following an intense drought, marking a first in 34 years.
Laventille, San Juan/Laventille, Trinidad and Tobago

Browning Crowns in Tombstone Territorial Park
Taller trees in Tombstone Territorial Park are experiencing browning due to increased exposure to harsh winter conditions, amidst inconsistent snowfall and local climate changes.
Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory

Late Freeze-Up on Elim Creek
Observers in Elim, Alaska, report an unusually late freeze-up of local creeks, a trend echoed across the Seward Peninsula and other parts of Alaska, attributed to warmer than normal air temperatures and impacting travel and subsistence activities.
Elim, Alaska, United States

That mysterious animal spotted in Anchorage? Likely not a wolf, Fish and Game says
Photos of the animal recently circulated widely online, prompting a flurry of debate about whether the animal was a wolf or just a dog.

Early season snowfall
An early snowfall was observed in Anchorage on October 9, 2024, weeks ahead of the typical mid-October snow, following a sudden temperature drop from the mid-50s to low 30s Fahrenheit.

New Ketchikan landslide blocks road, cutting off motorists
The Revilla Road slide came Sunday evening after heavy rains and initially trapped six vehicles with eight people inside, local officials said. Cleanup continued Monday.
Ketchikan, Alaska, United States

Fast-growing Hurricane Milton is officially a Category 5 storm as it nears Florida
Milton grew quickly into a Category 5 storm Monday morning and is forecast to make landfall in Florida midweek.
Tampa, Florida, United States

First known video footage of brown bat in the Beaufort Delta
Eric and Louise McLeod have been visiting their cabin south of Aklavik, N.W.T., for 25 years. On their most recent trip, they saw something they never had before.
Aklavik, Northwest Territories, Canada

What happened to those king salmon caught as bycatch?
The fallout from the closure of the central Gulf of Alaska pollock fishery, in response to the salmon bycatch, continues. Afterward, a number of readers responded with similar questions: What happened to those salmon? Were they sold? Donated? Thrown back into the water? The short answer, according to a federal management official: The salmon were “discarded.”
Kodiak, Alaska, United States
Alaska Beacon

Salmon production in the region has decreased by 11 times
The total catch volume of Pacific salmon in the district was 302.4 tons. This is almost 91% of the allocated volumes for three categories of fishing - industrial, amateur and traditional for community representatives. This is 11 times less than in 2022, a "non-pink salmon" year (even years are characterized by small approaches of this type of salmon).
Анадырь, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia

Fourth deer in B.C. found with fatal chronic wasting disease
A fourth case of chronic wasting disease has been confirmed in a white-tailed deer in the Kootenay region of British Columbia.
Kootenay, British Columbia, Canada
CHEK

Concern grows among fishermen and scientists about low silver salmon returns in Cook Inlet
Fish and Game issued sport and commercial closures for coho fishing beginning in late summer across the entire Susitna River drainage, northern Cook Inlet and Anchorage. There were also restrictions placed on Kenai Peninsula rivers and streams including the Kenai, Kasilof and the lower Cook Inlet systems. Just last week, on the Kenai River, managers removed the option of sport fishing with bait and reduced the bag limit to one coho.

Decline in Saskatoon Berry Abundance, Southern Manitoba
A severe decline in saskatoon berry production near Glenboro, Manitoba, has led to unsustainable harvesting, with potential economic and ecological impacts, likely exacerbated by recent droughts and heatwaves.
Carberry, Manitoba, Canada

Extended monsoon causing flooding and landslides
Kirtipur, Central Region, Nepal

Impacts of Hurricane Helene in Watauga County
Hurricane Helene brought unexpected flooding and damage to Boone, North Carolina.
Boone, North Carolina, United States

N.W.T. communities learning to adapt as heat waves become more common
From a pop-up waterpark to an emergency cooling centre at the local curling rink, communities in the Northwest Territories are responding to the record-breaking heat associated with climate change.
Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada

Dangerous bluetongue virus: Drops sheep program at agricultural fair
The article reports on the serious outbreak of bluetongue virus affecting sheep in Rogaland and Agder, Norway, leading to a 30% mortality rate and the cancellation of all sheep-related events in the regions.
Norway
NRK

Did a tornado touch down during the Jasper wildfire? Researchers want to know
Researchers investigate the possibility of a tornado during the Jasper wildfire, exploring a new class of fire-generated tornadoes and their implications for Canada's changing climate.
Jasper, Alberta, Canada

Landslides Along Nushagak River
The five documented landslides may be associated with high rainfall between July and September.
Koliganek, Alaska, United States
Constantine Johnson, Richard L Thoman Jr

Unseasonably warm autumn not delaying birds' departure
Temperature records continued to be broken this week in Utsjoki, Finland's northernmost municipality. Despite thie, the autumn migration of birds is proceeding at a fairly standard pace, according to Birdlife Finland.
Utsjoki, Lapland, Finland
News

Fort Simpson mayor says water levels might end ferry season early this year
As the Liard River water levels continue to drop, Fort Simpson Mayor Sean Whelly is urging people in the N.W.T. village to get prepared earlier than usual.
Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, Canada

The glaciers in Finnmark are melting the fastest of Norway's glaciers
The glaciers in Finnmark, particularly the Øksfjordjøkelen, are melting rapidly, with significant shrinkage observed each year, raising concerns about climate change impacts.
Øksfjordjøkelen, Loppa, Finnmark
Kristina Brekke, Hanne Larsen, Bent Lindsetmo, Kai Erik Bull, Vanja Ulfsnes

New kind of plant on the beach
A new plant species is establishing itself in the area and impacting native beach greens.
Aleksandrovsk, Alaska, United States

Sabine’s Gull––A distinctive and unusual tern-like gull
An observer reports unusual sightings of Sabine's gulls, including juveniles, outside their typical migration period, suggesting a potential new breeding colony near Nome.
Nome, Alaska, United States
The Nome Nugget

More than ten warnings issued due to Icebergs
The Icelandic Coast Guard has issued many warnings regarding icebergs in the past two days.
Árneshreppur, Westfjords, Iceland
RÚV

Wildlife officers kill wolf near Yellowknife's Ranney Hill, days after hiker bitten
Wildlife officials in Yellowknife have confirmed that they killed a wolf in the Ranney Hill area, days after a person was bit by a wolf on the walking trail. They have not yet determined if it's the same animal.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Finland records 71st 'hot' day this year
Meteorologists recorded a high temperature of 25.2 degrees Celsius (77 F) in the eastern town of Lappeenranta, marking the city's 40th 'hot' day this year, according to Yle forecaster Anne Borgström.
Lappeenranta, South Karelia, Finland
News

Dead Sea Otters
No obvious cause of death for this adult and juvenile otter.
McDonald Spit, Alaska, United States
Kris Holderied, Stephen Payton, Barbara Mahoney, Mike Brubaker

In Yukon, salmon for dinner used to mean fresh-caught fish. Now, it's flown in
CBC Radio’s What on Earth travelled to Yukon this summer to explore how a warming climate has threatened chinook salmon, endangering not just the species but a cultural keystone for some Indigenous communities.
Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
CBC Radio

Unusual cysts in grayling
"Grayling guts with unknown pearl like cyst or tapeworm. Never seen this before in our grayling."
Arctic Village, Alaska, United States
Noah Tsigonis, Crystal Frank Welker, Jayde Ferguson, Sarah Yoder

Wondering where the fish have gone
With a bleak salmon return this year in Northwest Alaska, a lifelong fisherman reflects on a season marked by empty nets and big questions.

Orcas challenge the Bering Sea’s black cod industry
Orcas are starting to show new feeding behaviors around large trawler nets. They’re trying to steal fish caught in nets that are typically being hauled back. Scientists aren’t sure why orcas are doing this, but it’s dangerous for them because it increases their chances of getting caught in the net and dying.The problem is so bad that some fishermen have decided to skip fishing for black cod this year.
Unalaska, Alaska, United States

Strong winds break boats loose in Ísafjörður
Boats that were moored in Ísafjörður, broke away from their berths yesterday in gale force winds.There was a strong sea current in the Westfjords as the storm hit; roof panels were damaged and rescue teams were called out.
Ísafjörður, Westfjords, Iceland
RÚV

A summer without mosquitoes
An unusually mosquito-free summer in Anchorage, Alaska, despite wet conditions, has prompted discussions among local observers and experts, with no clear correlation found between weather patterns and mosquito activity. Although the numbers and timing are locally influenced, similar observations were shared from Fairbanks and Chistochina.
Daisy Huang, Wilson Justin, Christopher Crews, Derek Sikes, Wilson Justin, Jessie Moan, Richard L Thoman Jr, Gemini , Mike Brubaker

Blue-green algae bloom found in Yellowknife not toxic, government says
The N.W.T.'s Department of Environment and Climate Change and the Canadian Coast Guard tested samples from various locations in the area. The results showed no toxins present.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Landslide triggers 55-foot tsunami wave at Kenai Fjords National Park
Heavy rains and melting glaciers are making landslides in the area more common, says a geologist.
Pedersen Bay, Alaska

Exceptionally warm summer in Finnmark
Warm summer days lasted all August along the coast to the Barents Sea, from Hammerfest in the west to Kirkenes in the east. The latter is now experiencing the warm weather to last into September with several days reaching maximum temperatures up to 20 degrees Celsius (68 F).
Kirkenes, Finnmark Fylke, Norway
The Independent Barents Observer

Damage from permafrost melting in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation may exceed 10 trillion rubles
The article discusses the potential economic impact of permafrost melting in Russia's Arctic zone, estimating damages could exceed 10 trillion rubles by 2050 due to infrastructure collapse and other issues.
Norilsk, Krasnoyarskiy, Russia

'Haunting glimpse of Climate Change': Snow vanishes from Uttarakhand's Om Parvat for the first time in history
For the first time, snow has completely disappeared from Uttarakhand's Om Parvat, a significant change noted last week.
Om Parvat

Spike in salmon shark sightings near Kodiak stumps researchers
Researchers are puzzled by an increase in salmon shark sightings near Kodiak, with unclear links to king salmon declines and insufficient data on shark populations and movements.
Kodiak, Alaska, United States

New Hampshire resident dies after testing positive for mosquito-borne encephalitis virus
A New Hampshire resident's death from EEE prompts concerns over the virus's spread, leading to nighttime outdoor activity bans in Massachusetts towns.
Hampstead, New Hampshire, United States
AP News

Search Called Off, No Tourists Under Ice
The search for tourists believed trapped in a collapsed Icelandic ice cave has ended, revealing all were accounted for; experts criticize year-round tours as unsafe.
Höfn, Southern Region, Iceland
Iceland Review

1 person killed in Ketchikan landslide, multiple homes destroyed
A landslide in Ketchikan resulted in one fatality, multiple destroyed homes, and ongoing emergency responses, following heavy rainfall.
Ketchikan, Alaska, United States

50 Massachusetts beaches closed for unsafe bacteria as residents try to enjoy weekend before Labor Day
Over the past few months, the Mass Department of Public Health, working with the Department of Recreation and Conservation, has deemed dozens of water locations throughout the state closed due to high bacteria levels.
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
CBS Boston

Fish and Game searching for wolf that bit 2 people on Dalton Highway
Alaska Fish and Game officials are searching for a rare, potentially rabid wolf that unexpectedly attacked two people on the Dalton Highway.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States

Glacial flood on Skaftá River - Civil Defence "level of uncertainty"issued
The glacial flood, or jökulhlaup, is the first from the western cauldron in almost three years. This is considered to be a significantly lengthy break.
Vatnajökull Glacier
RÚV

Melting Starfish
Starfish wasting observed in Kassan for the first time in several years.
Kasaan, Alaska, United States
Krissy Dunker, Gemini , Donna Aderhold, Kris Holderied, Melissa Miner, Carol Fletcher, Sarah Yoder

Third consecutive Bering Sea storm touches down on Alaska's west coast
Meteorologists say the brunt of the storm is likely headed for the southern edge of the Seward Peninsula.
Nome, Alaska, United States

Red skies over Finland as Canadian wildfire smoke arrives
The smoke particles have already reached high into the atmosphere, so they won't cause health problems or unusual odours. The most colourful sunset is expected on Tuesday evening.
Finland
Yle

Coastal Yukon River faces flood advisory as lower Kuskokwim catalogs flood impacts
Communities along the lower Kuskokwim River and coastal areas in Western Alaska assess damage from recent storms, with flooding and erosion impacting homes and infrastructure, and a new storm potentially exacerbating conditions.
Western Alaska, United States
Sage Smiley, KYUK - Bethel and Evan Erickson, KYUK - Bethel

Erosion continues along Noatak River
High water throughout the summer continues to erode the river bank.
Noatak, Alaska, United States
Richard L Thoman Jr, Gemini , Jeffrey Luther, Crane Johnson

Interior sees record temperatures as former typhoon approaches Alaska
Some temperatures in the eastern Interior hit 90 degrees Sunday, as ex-Typhoon Ampil moves toward Western Alaska this week.
Eagle, Alaska, United States

Concern Over Plummeting Ptarmigan Population
This breeding season for ptarmigans has been the fourth worst on record in northern Iceland, due in part to a June snowstorm.
Northern Iceland
Iceland Review

Another whale swims close to Reynisfjara
RÚV received a video this week that shows a whale just off the beach at Reynisfjara; the second time in about a week. Guðjón Már Sigurðsson, marine biologist and cetacean expert at the Icelandic Marine Research Institute, says the whale swims shallow in a search for food.
Vik, South, Iceland

Toxin that causes paralytic shellfish poisoning blamed for Alaska seal deaths
A die-off last year at St. Paul Island, the first compelling case of fatal saxitoxin poisoning in marine mammals, comes as more harmful algae is found farther north
Saint Paul, Alaska, United States

Tree Rotten or Infested?
A close look at this fallen spruce tree raises questions underlying causes and tree health.
College, Alaska, United States

Blue Jay sighted near Dawson City
Blue jays occur across southern Canada from Alberta east to Quebec and the Atlantic provinces.
Dawson City, YT

High water after many days of rain
Alatna and Koyukuk River water level rise in three days raising concerns for transportation, and community is on emergency flood watch.
Alatna, Alaska, United States

Harmful Algal Blooms Linked to Deaths of Northern Fur Seals in the Southeast Bering Sea
Testing confirmed widespread exposure of saxitoxin in marine mammals and other wildlife. In the study, researchers collected and analyzed data from 10 dead northern fur seals and hundreds of dead, mostly benthic, fish that washed ashore on a popular beachcombing beach on St. Paul Island in August 2024.
Saint Paul, Alaska, United States
NOAA

Employee killed by polar bears at remote worksite off Baffin Island, company says
A worker with a logistics company that operates the North Warning System in Nunavut has died after being attacked by two polar bears on Thursday.
Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada

Dead fish in creek near Eagle mine likely killed by cyanide, Yukon officials say
Officials with the Yukon government say dozens of dead fish found earlier this week in a creek near Victoria Gold's Eagle mine were likely killed by a discharge of contaminated water from the mine site.
Mayo, Yukon, Canada

“Huge disaster”: Historically weak pink salmon runs strain Alaska’s seine fishermen
Skippers in Prince William Sound and Kodiak say this year's pink harvest is one of the worst they’ve ever seen. “I wake up every morning and I try to apply for a different job," one said.
Northern Journal

Heatwave hits Nunavut with ‘astounding’ temperatures
A heatwave is hitting Kitikmeot and Kivalliq communities this week bringing temperatures above 30 C (86 F), twice as high as the average temperature for these regions at this time of year.
Baker Lake, Nunavut, Canada
Nunatsiaq News

Alaska's North Slope sees record-breaking heat, among state's other climate oddities
Alaska's North Slope experienced unprecedented heat with temperatures nearing 90 degrees, alongside the state's wettest July and other climate impacts.
Utqiaġvik, Alaska, United States
Casey Grove, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

Record-breaking rain drenches Anchorage, triggering road closures and a flood advisory
Anchorage experiences unprecedented rainfall, leading to road closures and flood advisories due to overflowing creeks and waterlogged streets.
Chris Klint, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

Sea gulls on the beach not moving
Observers report unusual sea gull lethargy and die-offs on area beaches.
Brevig Mission, Alaska, United States
Racheal Lee, Sarah Yoder, January Frost, Lillian Olanna, Gay Sheffield, Kathy Kuletz

River erosion threatening community water supply
Erosion of the shoreline on Well Island is threatening the water line that connects the village of Noatak to their water supply. The Tribal Health System is coordinating with the federal agencies and state and borough to support water supply needs and repairs.
Noatak, Alaska, United States
Francine Moreno, Christopher Cox, Max Neale, Jeffrey Luther, Chris Dankmeyer, James Benzschawel

Juneau glacial outburst flooding begins; Mendenhall Lake and River set to hit near-record levels
Minor flood stage will begin Monday morning, with flood water expected to crest sometime early Tuesday.
Juneau, Alaska, United States
KTOO

Calgary hail storm the 2nd-costliest disaster in Canadian history after $2.8B in damage
The Insurance Bureau of Canada says a severe hail storm that battered Calgary last month is the second-costliest event in Canadian history.
Northeast Calgary, Canada
Global News

Russia's Republic of Tyva Declares Wildfire Emergency
Authorities in Siberia’s republic of Tyva declared a regional state of emergency due to ongoing wildfires exacerbated by prolonged hot and dry weather.
Tyva, Siberia, Russia
The Moscow Times

Seagull die offs reported in several Chukotka communities
Dead seagulls were found near five coastal villages of the district - Ryrkaipia, Nutepelmena, Lorino, Lavrentiya and Enurmino. The largest number of dead birds were found near the village of Ryrkaipiy in the Egvekinot municipality. Local residents reported that there were several dozen Eastern Siberian gulls on the shore and ice floes.
Chukotka , Russia

An Unknown Condition Found on Atlantic Salmon Parr
Atlantic salmon parr in Shinney's Brook, Labrador, exhibit an unusual condition with round, jelly-like substances and blood-like markings, yet appear healthy and behave normally. The conditions may be Atlantic salmon papillomatosis.
Shinney's Brook, NunatuKavut, Labrador
Sarah Yoder, David Oswald, Donna Carroll, Ted Meyers, Jayde Ferguson

Village Airport Stuck in the Mud
Brevig Mission's airport has been unusable due to heavy rain rendering its runways unsafe, disrupting travel and medical supplies.
Brevig Mission, Alaska, United States
KNOM Radio Mission

July was cooler and greyer than normal for much of Highlands, Met Office confirms
Much of the Highlands was cooler and greyer than normal in July, but not particularly wet, the Met Office has said.
Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
Inverness Courier

Typhoon Merbok Impacts on Berry Plants
Typhoon Merbok's flooding with seawater prevented the growth of crowberries, lingonberries, cloudberries, and local greens in the tundra surrounding the village until summer 2024, when they finally began to recover.
Hooper Bay, Alaska, United States
Abby Nelson, Dana Diehl, Sandra Hill, Lars Flora, Katie Spellman

St. Johnsbury, Vermont, Area Flooded
A localized round of heavy rain has wreaked havoc on the St. Johnsbury, Vermont, area, washing out some roads and damaging homes. This same area was hit hard with flooding just 19 days prior as the remnants of Beryl crossed North America. About two dozen rescues took place during the latest round of flooding and officials warned that the impacts could worsen as creeks rise further or more rain arrives.
St Johnsbury, Vermont, United States
The Weather Channel

The first case of a walrus dying of bird flu registered on Svalbard
“Last year we got several reports from tourists and scientists that they saw around six walruses dead here on the west side of Svalbard. Unfortunately, we couldn’t sample them as the dead walruses drifted away by the time we got to the place. But it’s not normal to get so many reported dead walruses in such a small area," said Christian Lydersen, senior scientist at the Norwegian Polar Institute. Now samples (collected by a Station Manager in July 2023) have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Svalbard, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The Independent Barents Observer

2 Dead After Dam Collapses in Northwestern Russia
Two people were killed after a torrent of water poured over a cofferdam in northwestern Russia early Monday and flooded the surrounding area, authorities said.
Надвоицы, Сегежский район, Karelia, Russia
The Moscow Times

A Beautiful Menace: Invasive Orange Hawkweed Spreads Through Southeast Alaska
The invasive orange hawkweed, known for its striking appearance, is rapidly spreading across Southeast Alaska, threatening local ecosystems by outcompeting native plants.
Petersburg, Alaska, United States
KFSK

Crews battle wildfires across the US West and fight to hold containment lines
Wildfires across the western United States and Canada have put millions of people under air quality alerts, as thousands of firefighters battle the flames.
Cohasset, California, United States
AP News

Here, the wolf wanders right outside Therese Mydland's door
A wolf has been sighted in Sokndal, near the coast of western Norway, an area where such sightings are rare, sparking discussions about potential risks and the possibility of issuing a culling permit.
Sköndal, Stockholm, Sweden

Snakes appear in the Russian north as the Arctic warms
Climate change has led to sightings of species like the European adder, spiders, and herons beyond their typical range in the Russian Arctic.
Taimyr–Central Siberia
ArcticToday
Elizaveta Vereykina, The Independent Barents Observer

First ever subsistence fishery closure at Port Clarence causes hardship at Teller, Brevig
After experiencing an unprecedented closure of subsistence salmon fishing, the Port Clarence district, including Teller and Brevig Mission, is now open for fishing.
Teller, Alaska, United States

Spike in baby gulls falling, jumping from roofs during recent heat wave: B.C rescue
During a B.C. heat wave, there was an unusual increase in baby gulls falling or jumping from rooftops, leading to numerous rescues by a local wildlife organization.
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia

Another polar bear shot in Ittoqqortoormiit
A polar bear was shot in Ittoqqortoormiit after being spotted wandering the streets, marking the second such incident in the town within a week.
Ittoqqortoormiit, Sermersooq, Greenland
Sermitsiaq

Landslide forces closure of section South Klondike Highway north of the U.S. border
A landslide caused by heavy rains has shut down the South Klondike Highway, affecting travelers and requiring officials to coordinate an alternative route for stranded cruise passengers.
Carcross, Yukon, Canada
Juneau Empire

Storms cause significant damage in Cornwall, Ont.
A severe storm in Cornwall, Ontario, caused extensive damage, including a house fire from a lightning strike and widespread power outages.
Cornwall, Ontario, Canada
Ottawa

Surprise Yellowstone geyser eruption highlights little known hazard at popular park
A surprise eruption of steam in a Yellowstone National Park geyser basin that sent people scrambling for safety as basketball-sized rocks flew overhead has highlighted a little-known hazard that scientists hope to be able to predict someday.
Billings, Montana, United States
CTVNews

Reports of dying voles in Kotzebue area
These small rodents are a key part of the Northwest Arctic ecosystem.
Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Joanna Barton, Sarah Yoder, Susan Georgette, Kimberlee Beckmen, Gay Sheffield, Carmen Daggett, Susan Tessier, Kimberlee Beckmen

Jasper damage map released as park’s largest wildfire in 100 years rages
Residents and businesses of the townsite inside Jasper National Park found out Saturday for certain whether or not they have anything to return to.
Jasper Park Lodge, Alberta, Canada
Global News

Wood Storks in west Alabama
Wood storks observed on West Alabama wetlands.
Aliceville, Alabama, United States

Svalbard had warmest June on record
Longyearbyen airport had an average temperature of 6.1°C, which is 2.5°C above normal. Global air and sea surface temperatures were also at record levels.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Svalbard and Jan Mayen
The Independent Barents Observer

Most of the red salmon were carrying worms
From the images shared, these appear to be *Philemona*, a freshwater parasite. *Philomena* is a food quality concern but is *Not* considered a human health concern. With proper preparation, the salmon is safe to eat.
Kenai, Alaska, United States
Cindy Lawrence, Lars Flora, Mike Brook, Sarah Yoder, Jayde Ferguson

Arctic air brings historically cold July temperatures to Bethel
Bethel, Alaska, experienced historically low July temperatures with highs in the 40s, a rare event not seen since 1971, due to an unusual cold air outbreak from the Arctic.
Bethel, Alaska, United States

'Strange' bald eagle attacks at Kodiak harbor cause multiple injuries
Unusual aggressive bald eagle behavior, not linked to nest protection, leads to multiple injuries at Kodiak harbor, possibly due to eagles being fed by people.

Snake-like procession of insect larvae spotted again in Interior Alaska
A rare phenomenon of gnat larvae forming snake-like processions has been observed again in Interior Alaska, raising questions about their behavior and species classification.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States

Downtown Juneau apartment building evacuated following landslide
A landslide in Juneau, Alaska, prompted the evacuation of an apartment building, with no injuries reported but further slides expected due to heavy rain.
Juneau, Alaska, United States

Extremely rare beaked whale washes ashore in Otago
An extremely rare Spade-toothed Beaked Whale *Mesoplodon traversii* washed ashore in Otago, providing the first chance to dissect and study such a specimen, with DNA analysis underway to confirm its species.
Wellington, New Zealand
NZ Herald

At least 65 pilot whales die in Scottish mass stranding
At least 65 long-finned pilot whales have died after being stranded on an island off the north coast of Scotland, a rescue charity said on Thursday, in one of the largest mass strandings in Britain in recent times.
Scotland, United Kingdom
CTVNews

'Swarm of earthquakes' rattle off B.C.'s coast, no tsunami expected
A series of earthquakes struck off the coast of Vancouver Island, with no tsunami threat reported. Andrew Schaeffer, an earthquake seismologist with the Geological Survey of Canada, said last week that despite the uptick in seismic activity, the quakes were "business as usual" for the region.
Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia

Record June temperatures and heavy rainfall in northern Finland
Northern Finland experienced unprecedented June temperatures and abnormal rainfall, deviating significantly from historical weather patterns.
Finland

Residents in parts of Yellowknife say tap water smells, tastes swampy
The city says the water is tested and safe to consume. The city is switching water source back to the Yellowknife River as a primary source, as a result of warm weather consumption, several known leaks, and perhaps other still unknown failures.

Four killed as heavy rains pound South Korea
Weather agency says the severity of the precipitation is only seen ‘once in about 200 years’.
Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
Al Jazeera

B.C. weather: 149-year-old temperature record broken amid heat wave
British Columbia experienced a historic heat wave, breaking 34 additional temperature records, some over a century old, with more heat anticipated in the interior regions.
British Columbia, Canada
CVT News Vancouver

Extreme rains causing road erosion
Intense rainfall in Cheonan, South Korea, causes significant erosion of a local river park road.
Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea

B.C. wildfires: Number of blazes jumps to 130 as heat wave creates prime fire conditions
The B.C. Wildfire Service says the cold front in northern B.C. is expected to generate strong winds, thunderstorms and the potential for dry lightning in the region plagued by drought.
British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver Sun

More people have been infected with Lyme disease
Norway reports a record high of 175 Lyme disease cases from January to June 2024, with uncertain causes attributed to weather conditions and increased tick awareness.
Norway

Black-legged kittiwakes dying in Kotzebue Sound area
A couple of weeks ago I spotted a small gull on the second bridge behind Kotzebue. The bird wouldn't fly and was walking slowly.
Louisa Castrodale, Andrew Ramey, Racheal Lee, Susan Tessier, Joanna Barton, Gay Sheffield, Kimberlee Beckmen, January Frost, Sarah Yoder

Four earthquakes off Iceland's northern coast
We've become very used to seismic activity in Iceland's southwest corner, but last night, four earthquakes above magnitude three hit a very different area - the Kolbeinsey ridge, far off the country's northern coast.
Iceland

'Unbelievable I survived': Yukon woman attacked by bear speaks out
Following an attack from a grizzly in Haines Junction, Yukon, Vanessa Leegstra spoke to CBC from hospital: "I just knew I couldn't leave my husband and my daughter, I wasn't ready."
Haines Junction, Yukon, Canada

Warmest June on Record
Temperatures in Finland last month were between 1.5 and 3.5 degrees Celsius warmer than normal in most parts of the country.
Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
News

Aklavik Hunters and Trappers asked to keep an eye out for 'orange slime'
Floating substance possibly iron oxide, but GNWT wants to make sure.
Aklavik, Northwest Territories, Canada
NNSL Media

In Photos: Muscovites Swelter in Record-Breaking Heat
Temperatures in Russia’s capital hit an all-time high of 32 degrees Celsius on Tuesday – Moscow’s hottest day in over 130 years.
The heatwave follows a spate of volatile weather in the city and other parts of Russia. In June, after severe rainfall flooded parts of the city, Moscow was struck by Storm Edgar, which killed two people and injured dozens more. A rare tornado was also sighted in the Moscow region.
Moscow, Moscow, Russia
The Moscow Times

The Moment a rare white loon was caught on camera
Chris Whitty captured stunning photos of a rare white loon in British Columbia, marking an unusual wildlife sighting.
Radio-Canada.ca

Summer Heatwave Sweeps Russia, Breaking Dozens of Temperature Records
Around 40 daily temperature records were broken across Russia and annexed Crimea on Tuesday as hot summer weather gripped the country. The unprecedented temperatures have engulfed Russia from its central regions to the Far East, reaching a maximum of 38.7 degrees Celsius in the village of Mamakan in southeastern Siberia’s Irkutsk region.
Moscow, Moscow, Russia

2 more seals admitted to SeaLife Center
Two harbor seal pups, one from Naknek and another from Wrangell, were recently rescued and are receiving care at the Alaska SeaLife Center due to malnourishment and other health issues.
Homer, Alaska, United States
Homer News

Tustumena Lake fire reported 25% contained
The Tustumena Lake fire in Alaska is 25% contained, with efforts including smokejumpers and over 56,000 gallons of water deployed to combat the 35-acre blaze.
Tustumena Lake, Alaska, United States
Homer News

Hurricane Beryl is a historic storm. Here's why.
Hurricane Ivan in 2004 was the last strong hurricane to hit the southeastern Caribbean, causing catastrophic damage in Grenada as a Category 3 storm. Hurricane Beryl lashed the southeastern Caribbean as a Category 4 storm — an unprecedented strength this early in the Atlantic season. Beryl amassed its strength from record-warm waters that are hotter now than they would be at the peak of hurricane season in September, he said.
Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados
CBS News

Denali National Park bars visitors as wildfire burns near entrance
Denali National Park has closed to visitors due to the rapidly spreading Riley Fire near its entrance, prompting evacuations and a significant firefighting response.
Denali National Park, Alaska, United States

Crow exibiting unusual behavior
The crow was on the beach hiding near a driftwood stump and was unable to fly and struggled to walk. These are signs associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) also commonly referred to as "bird flu". See video.
Whittier, Alaska, United States
Michael Opheim, Stephen Payton, Sarah Coburn, Margo Werner, Christy McDonald, Andrew Ramey, January Frost, Sarah Yoder, Andrew Ramey

Anchorage's popular Ship Creek to close to sport fishing for 2 weeks
Ship Creek in Anchorage will be closed to sport fishing for two weeks to support salmon stock sustainability at a local hatchery.
Wesley Early, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

Wildfire near Elliot Highway prompts 'Go' evacuation order
A fast-moving wildfire near Elliot Highway in Fairbanks, Alaska, has led to a Level 3 evacuation order for residents, with the fire rapidly growing to over a thousand acres.

Unusual Bubble (Capsule) in Fish Eggs
These eggs from a trout caught in the Fish River, had unusual milky translucent capsules in it.
White Mountain, Alaska, United States
Jacqualine Schaeffer, Ted Meyers, Jayde Ferguson

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna bycatch in secluded Chaleur Bay
An Atlantic Bluefin Tuna was unexpectedly caught in a Mi'kmaq salmon net in Chaleur Bay, New Brunswick, an area outside its natural range, highlighting significant ecological changes in the bay, including new prey species and increased sightings of larger predators like White Sharks.
Chaleur Bay, New Brunswick, Canada

Black bear shot dead while trying to get into tent near Portage campgrounds
A black bear was fatally shot by federal officials after attempting to break into an occupied tent near Portage campgrounds in Alaska, following a recent similar incident that injured a woman.
Portage Creek, Alaska, United States

More than three tons of salmon were caught by fishermen in Chukotka
Cold spring and summer affected the results of salmon production in the district. Fishermen in the region caught more than three tons of salmon - this is several times less than in previous years, according to IA "Chukotka".
Khatyrka, Chukotskiy Avtonomnyy Okrug, Russia

Interesting Bug on the Kuskowim River
A stonefly nymph, common in Alaska but unfamiliar to local residents, was observed along the Kuskokwim River.
Bethel, Alaska, United States

Water Shortage Forces Capri Island to Close Doors to Tourists
Capri Island halts tourist entry due to a major water shortage crisis. Learn about the emergency measures and efforts to restore water supply.
Capri, Campania, Italy
Focus on Travel News - ftnnews.com

Maximum-security prison in Quebec evacuated due to forest fires
A maximum-security prison in Quebec was evacuated as forest fires threatened the region, leading to the relocation of 225 inmates and a state of emergency declaration.
Québec, Quebec, Canada
Montreal

1 person found dead and 2 still missing after floods, rockslide hit a Swiss Alpine village
A deadly rockslide and floods triggered by severe weather struck a Swiss Alpine village, resulting in one fatality and two missing persons, with ongoing search efforts hampered by heavy rainfall.
Lostallo, Grisons, Switzerland
CTVNews

Sea-ice lies thick on the water as Russian oil tanker sails Arctic route without icebreaker escort
Loaded with up to 38,000 tons of oil, the 245 meter long tanker Shturman Skuratov makes this year's first transit shipment on the Northern Sea Route. Despite major concentrations of sea-ice, the tanker sails without icebreaker assistance.
Northern Sea Route

McDonald Fire remains west of Tanana River
The McDonald Fire has grown to over 39,000 acres west of the Tanana River, with statewide fires consuming 72,000 acres; critical fire danger and smoke advisories are in effect.
West of the Tanana River, Alaska
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

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