Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent in Alaska, and other climate report takeaways

In Southeast Alaska, the changing climate means more deadly landslides, and in Anchorage, more heavy-snowfall events, according to Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy’s report.

Comments on Related LEO Posts (Extreme Precipitation) from Gemini:

The related observations paint a vivid picture of increasing extreme weather events in Alaska over recent years, aligning with the articles theme. These reports detail record snowfalls in Anchorage (2023, 2024, 2012, 2013), Haines (2024, 2020), Fairbanks (2020, 2021), Nome (2024) and Juneau (2024), often leading to infrastructure damage (roof collapses in Anchorage in 2023, warehouse collapse in 2023, road closures, school closures), transportation disruptions and highlighting the increasing challenges of snow removal. The observations also reveal related hazards such as avalanches (Eagle River, Juneau 2021, Haines 2020), flooding (Haines 2020, Juneau 2024) and landslides (Haines 2020, Prince of Wales Island 2020). The recurring theme of heavy snow followed by rain, leading to increased risks of avalanches and structural damage due to the added weight, is evident in several reports, including those from Juneau (2024) and Haines (2020). Finally, the observation regarding increased bison presence on roads and farmland due to deep snow in Interior Alaska underscores the impact of these extreme weather events on wildlife and local ecosystems.The increase in extreme weather events in Alaska mirrors global climate change trends. The Arctic is warming at a rate four times faster than the global average [1], leading to changes in precipitation patterns, sea ice formation, and permafrost thaw. The observation about Typhoon Merbok in 2022 causing widespread damage to coastal communities highlights the increased vulnerability of Alaska's coastline due to later sea ice formation. The observation of glacial lake outburst floods becoming an annual event at Mendenhall River since 2011 is consistent with the increased glacial melt observed across Alaska [2]. These events are not only causing immediate damage but also raise concerns about long-term impacts on infrastructure, ecosystems, and traditional ways of life. It's also crucial to remember that "year-to-year variability", as mentioned in the main observation, plays a role. While long-term trends point towards increased extreme events, individual years may still experience variations from the average.

[1] Rantanen, M., et al. "The Arctic has warmed nearly four times faster than the globe since 1979." Communications Earth & Environment 3.1 (2022): 1-10. https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-022-00498-3

[2] Larsen, C. F., et al. "Alaska's glaciers and icefields are losing mass." (2015). https://www.usgs.gov/news/featured-story/alaskas-glaciers-and-icefields-are-losing-mass