Anchorage, Alaska – May 3, 2025
In a state traditionally known for its icy landscapes and sub-zero winters, Alaska is now grappling with a new and unsettling reality — extreme heat.
Earlier this week, the National Weather Service issued an unprecedented heat advisory for parts of interior and southern Alaska, with temperatures soaring into the high 80s°F (30°C) — nearly 20 degrees above seasonal averages. For regions accustomed to cool spring temperatures, the sudden spike has stunned residents and alarmed scientists.
“This level of heat in early May is historically unusual, and it’s a clear signal of our rapidly changing climate,” said Dr. Karen Matsu, a climatologist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “We’re seeing earlier snowmelt, increased wildfire risks, and stressed ecosystems — all tied to rising temperatures.”
Melting Ground and Rising Seas
Alaska’s permafrost — the frozen ground that underlies much of the state — is beginning to thaw at unprecedented rates. This is not just an environmental concern, but a structural one: roads are buckling, homes are sinking, and entire villages are at risk of being relocated due to erosion and flooding.
According to a recent NOAA report, Alaska is warming twice as fast as the global average. The impacts are especially visible in remote Indigenous communities where traditional lifestyles are tied closely to seasonal changes and wildlife patterns.
Wildlife and Human Impacts
As the state heats up, salmon populations are being affected by rising water temperatures, threatening both biodiversity and subsistence fishing. Wildlife migrations are also shifting, and in some cases, food sources are becoming less reliable.
Health experts are warning about increased risks of heat-related illnesses, particularly in communities that lack air conditioning and infrastructure to deal with high temperatures.
A Wake-Up Call
Governor Lisa Murkowski released a statement urging the federal government to prioritize climate resilience programs in Alaska. “What we’re witnessing isn’t just an environmental issue — it’s a human one. Our communities, our culture, and our economy are all at stake.”
Climate activists are calling the latest heatwave a wake-up call, demanding stronger action from policymakers both in Alaska and nationwide.
“We’ve sounded the alarm for years,” said Jason Tuluk, a youth climate advocate from Nome. “Now the alarm is ringing in everyone’s backyard.”