Author: Rachel Enano

Along the Chester Creek Trail in Anchorage, a hidden threat lurks beneath the surface. Invasive species, some of which have been present for decades, are harming local wildlife and disrupting the food supply for fish. Biologist Tim Stallard is on a mission to identify and mitigate these non-native plants. The European bird cherry tree, the May Day tree, is a prime example. Originally planted as an ornamental, it has taken over the area, pushing out native species. This monoculture provides little to no food for moose and contributes fewer insects to streams, impacting salmon populations. The issue extends beyond this…

A powerful geomagnetic storm is illuminating the night sky, offering a rare glimpse of the Northern Lights. The storm’s intense activity has generated stunning displays, with many viewers capturing photos of the phenomenon. The FirstAlert weather app has been instrumental in sharing these images, allowing everyone to enjoy the spectacle. Meanwhile, the Perseid Meteor Shower has peaked, treating stargazers to a spectacular show. Some lucky individuals spotted the Northern Lights and meteors the same night, making for an unforgettable experience. If you missed the display, don’t worry – there’s another chance to see it tonight. The optimal viewing time is…

Ben Bartos, a National Weather Service meteorologist, predicts the Tanana River will swell to near flood levels due to persistent summer showers. He expects the river to barely reach the action stage by Sunday evening. The Chena River’s brief surge to the action stage last week may foreshadow a similar trend for the Tanana River. Currently, the river’s in high water but remains below the action stage. Continued rainfall through the weekend will push the river to its peak height of approximately 23.5 feet on Sunday. Heavy additional downpour is required for the Tanana or nearby rivers to overflow their…

The Mendenhall Glacier’s Suicide Basin was released on August 6, 2024, unleashing a devastating flood in the Mendenhall Glacier Basin. Consequently, homes and roads were inundated, leaving the community reeling. Governor Mike Dunleavy swiftly issued a disaster declaration, prompting the Guard to activate five Juneau-based Guardsmen on August 7. Furthermore, two more joined the effort on August 8. Meanwhile, 33 Air and Army Guard volunteers from Fairbanks and Anchorage flew to Juneau to lend a hand. These citizen-soldiers are making a real difference. Col. Christen Brewer, joint director of military support, praises their efforts: “They’re model citizens, stepping up to…

A crucial election is underway in Eagle River, Alaska, where a five-way race could determine control of the state Senate. Incumbent Senator Kelly Merrick, a Republican, faces challenges from four opponents, including three fellow Republicans and one Democrat. Merrick, a member of the Senate’s bipartisan coalition, has worked across party lines to pass legislation and secure funding for her district. However, conservative Republicans, like Jared Goecker, argue that Merrick’s willingness to collaborate with Democrats has compromised her conservative values. Jared Goecker, inspired to run after his brother’s tragic death, hopes to help conservative Republicans take control of the Senate. He…

Mendenhall River Flooding in Alaska is causing widespread damage. A glacial lake outburst triggered a state of emergency on August 6. Authorities quickly issued voluntary evacuation orders for at-risk residents. Over 100 homes are damaged, with many more at risk. Residents along the Mendenhall River are forced to evacuate, with over 30 people seeking shelter at Floyd Dryden Middle School. Road closures are mounting due to flooding. Alaska Electric Light and Power Company has intentionally shut off power to several areas as a safety precaution due to the flooding. Some areas have had their power restored, but others remain without…

A flood warning has been issued for Juneau, Alaska, as Suicide Basin releases water into Mendenhall Lake and River. Consequently, forecasts predict flooding similar to the August 2023 glacial outburst flood. Residents near the river, especially west of Riverside Drive, must take action now. Specifically, water levels will crest, reaching 14-15 feet. To stay safe, make plans to spend Monday night elsewhere. Meanwhile, protect your property by moving important items to higher floors and preparing for possible power outages. The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) offers shelter at Floyd Dryden Middle School for those affected by flooding. Notably, the…

A groundbreaking study reveals a significant gap between Alaska’s childcare subsidies and the actual cost of care. The state previously relied on a market-based survey to determine subsidies. But this new study takes a more comprehensive approach, factoring in all expenses involved in providing care. The report shows that monthly costs for licensed centers range from $1,785 for infants to $1,250 for preschoolers, with home-based centers averaging $911 per child. However, these costs vary greatly depending on the region, with rural areas facing higher expenses due to utility and transportation costs. This disparity leaves many families struggling to afford care,…

Alaska’s Democratic delegates will finalize their support for Kamala Harris by Monday, marking a crucial step forward. Following President Joe Biden’s endorsement two weeks ago, which propelled Harris to the forefront, her campaign has gained significant momentum. Harris will shatter a long-standing barrier by becoming the first woman of color to lead a major party’s ticket. In doing so, she thanked supporters, saying she’s “honored” to be the nominee. Moreover, her historic nomination will pave the way for future generations of leaders. Mike Wenstrup, Alaska Democratic Party Chair, outlined the voting process, explaining that delegates can vote online until Monday…

Anchorage police need help to find 62-year-old Andrew Edwards. He has been missing from his assisted living home since yesterday. Edwards, an Alaska native, walked away from the facility at 1 a.m. He’s 5’6″ and 130 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, and has an intellectual disability, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. Governor Mike Dunleavy signed three energy bills into law Wednesday. He aims to improve Alaska’s energy outlook and reduce costs. House Bill 50 creates a new revenue opportunity by storing carbon dioxide in depleted oil and gas basins. The Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) is celebrating its…

The Anchorage Police Department released edited body cam footage of the fatal shooting of Kristopher Handy. Handy’s family is upset, demanding the full, unedited video. The police chief provided commentary to accompany the video, which displayed the shooting from various perspectives. However, the family’s lawyers say the footage is misleading. Handy’s fiancée, Harmony Stitt, wants the unedited video, feeling the released version doesn’t tell the whole story. A neighbor, Virginia Miller, also disputes the report’s findings, saying Handy didn’t raise his gun. Lawyers for Handy’s family question the heavily edited footage, wondering why certain angles were blurred or pixelated. The…

Alaska’s Summer Warmth Returns After a Cool July July is ending with a whimper, not a bang. Temperatures have been 1.5 degrees below average, making it the 7th wettest on record. But don’t worry, summer warmth is coming back! Southcentral Alaska will see sunshine and warmer temperatures, with highs reaching the mid-60s to low 70s. Valdez and Cordova will experience light rain, but it’ll clear up by midmorning. Expect a dry and warm spell for the next two weeks, with some showers returning to the Susitna Valley by Friday. Southeast Alaska will be cooler, with rain and breezy conditions. But…