Anchorage, Alaska is experiencing its warmest October on record with an average temperature of 43 degrees, beating the previous record set in 1936. Residents are surprised to see green grass and rain on Halloween, and the geese and ducks are still swimming in a local lake. While the leaves have fallen off the trees, people are eagerly awaiting the snow and wondering when the snow line will drop. Skiing has been good at Hatcher Pass, but rain fell all the way up to the chalet due to the warm weather. Anchorage residents are questioning if this is just unusual coastal weather or a sign of a lasting change in the winter season's timing. Snow sports are a significant reason why people love winters in Anchorage.

Observation: Anchorage is having the warmest October on record with an average temperature of 43 degrees. That will beat the record set in 1936 and residents are remarking on the novelty of having green grass and rain on Halloween. The geese and ducks are still swimming in the little lake at the Alaska Native Medical Center. All the leaves have fallen off the trees so we are definitely ready for snow and everyone one is looking at the mountains wondering when the snow line will drop. There has been some good skiing at Hatcher Pass over the past couple of weeks, but it was so warm this week that rain was falling all the way up to the chalet. It will be definitely be warm and wet for trick or treating. Anchorage residents wonder if this is just more weird coastal weather or an indication of a lasting change in the timing of the winter season. Snow sport opportunities are among the top reasons why Anchorites love the winters here.