Across much of Alaska, permafrost is thawing. In most locations of interior and south Alaska, what permafrost exists is protected by the ecosystems around it. Trees, moss and peat shade the ground from summer heat and help slow thaw. At the same time, scientists predict that wildfire seasons in Alaska will increase in duration and […]
Releases individual and public assistance for lost homes, personal belongings and public infrastructure (Palmer) – Governor Michael J. Dunleavy Friday issued a Disaster Declaration for the Matanuska Susitna Borough and Kenai Peninsula Borough for impacts from the McKinley, Deshka Landing, and Swan Lake wildfires. The wildfires have damaged or destroyed an estimated 83 […]
(WILLOW) – Alaska’s unusually volatile and prolonged wildfire season this year has extended into hunting season, creating challenges for firefighting crews and hunters alike. Of particular concern are popular game management units along the highway system between Homer and Talkeetna where several wildfires are currently burning even as moose hunting seasons open. “With general-hunt […]
The Alaska Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment, supports the McKinley Fire suppression mission Aug. 19, 2019, with two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The helicopters dropped more than 100,000 gallons of water during a total of 9.5 flight hours in support of this mission. (U.S. Army National Guard video courtesy of First […]