Author: The Tundra Drums Staff
A powerful burst of solar activity lit up night skies across the United States and dozens of countries worldwide, giving millions of people a rare chance to witness the Northern Lights far beyond their usual Arctic reach. Vibrant streaks of green, purple, red, and pink auroras were reported from states as far south as Colorado, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and even Northern California, according to space weather trackers. Similar displays were seen in parts of Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, marking one of the most widespread aurora events in recent years. Scientists say the widespread glow was triggered by a strong…
The wildlife viewing tower at Reflections Lake is temporarily closed as the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) begins structural repairs on the popular viewing platform. The tower is expected to reopen in spring 2026. While the tower is inaccessible, all Reflections Lake trails remain open to the public. Visitors are asked to follow posted closure signs and use caution around active construction zones. ADF&G says the viewing tower is an important feature for birdwatchers, photographers, and families visiting the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge. Repairs are aimed at improving long-term safety and ensuring the structure can continue…
A major fire tore through the Caribou Hotel early Wednesday morning, reducing much of the building to charred debris and prompting an active investigation by state fire marshals. Fire crews were called to the scene shortly after dawn as heavy flames engulfed the structure. Video and photos taken by witnesses show the hotel almost completely burned, with only portions of the exterior frame still standing. According to responders, all occupants managed to escape safely, and no injuries have been reported. Several vehicles parked near the hotel sustained fire damage. Read More: Fire in Anchorage Authorities have not yet determined the…
A dramatic infrastructure failure occurred on November 11, 2025, when the newly completed Hongqi Bridge in Southwest China partially collapsed into the gorge below. Authorities reported no casualties. The bridge, part of China National Highway G317, lies near the construction zone of the future Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station in Sichuan’s Maerkang City. Its design span measured 758 metres and the structure stood about 625 metres above the riverbed. On Monday, local authorities closed the bridge after detecting cracks in the nearby slopes and roadbed, signaling mounting terrain instability. The next day, a landslide triggered by the slope movement caused the approach…
A quick-thinking custodian at Wendler Middle School is being credited with preventing a potentially serious fire after spotting and extinguishing an electrical fire early Wednesday morning. According to the Anchorage Fire Department (AFD), the incident began when a hallway light fixture started to smolder. Acting immediately, the custodian grabbed a fire extinguisher and doused the smoking fixture with dry chemicals, successfully stopping the fire before it could spread. All school employees evacuated the building as a precaution until firefighters arrived to ensure the area was safe. After verifying that the danger had been completely neutralized, AFD commended the custodian’s quick…
The GAP 101 Teams webinar has been rescheduled to Monday, December 22, 2025, from 1:30–3:00 p.m. AKST. The session will be presented in English with Yup’ik translation and is open to anyone interested in how the EPA General Assistance Program (GAP) supports Tribal and community environmental work. Host & Partners: Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) in collaboration with the Native Villages of Kipnuk, Napakiak, Napaskiak, Nunapitchuk, and the Orutsararmiut Native Council (ONC). What you’ll learn (basics of GAP & grant management):
As the ongoing federal government shutdown continues, environmental enforcement and protection efforts across the United States have slowed to a near standstill, leaving polluters largely unchecked. According to Grist, agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are among the hardest hit. Thousands of employees responsible for monitoring air and water quality, inspecting industrial sites, and enforcing environmental laws have been placed on furlough. With enforcement suspended, factories, refineries, and other polluting industries are temporarily operating with reduced oversight. Environmental advocates warn that the pause in federal activity could have lasting ecological consequences, especially in communities already affected by pollution.…
The Alaska Center joined hundreds of Alaskans this past weekend at the Best of Alaska 2025 event, celebrating community spirit, sustainability, and local engagement. Team members from The Alaska Center spent the day meeting residents, answering questions, and sharing information about their ongoing programs that focus on clean energy, environmental stewardship, and civic participation across the state. Organizers described the event as a meaningful opportunity to connect with community members face-to-face and encourage Alaskans to get involved in initiatives that help build a sustainable and equitable future. The Best of Alaska event, held annually, showcases organizations, businesses, and individuals making…
The 5th Annual Alaska Radon Poster Contest is back, giving elementary and middle school students across the state a creative way to promote public health awareness through art. Organized by the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS), the contest encourages young artists to design posters that help educate Alaskans about the dangers of radon gas, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate indoors and pose health risks. The competition aims to raise awareness about radon testing, prevention, and safety, empowering students to help spread the message that testing homes for radon is simple and important for protecting…
Celebrate Alaskan creativity and craftsmanship at the Made in Alaska Holiday Market, returning to Alaska Pacific University (APU) on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This annual event showcases local businesses, artisans, and manufacturers who proudly carry the Made in Alaska seal, a certification guaranteeing that all products are handcrafted or manufactured right here in Alaska. Visitors can explore a diverse selection of locally made goods, watch hands-on demonstrations, and meet the makers who give Alaska’s small business community its unique identity. Here’s a preview of some of the featured exhibitors: The market offers more than…
In observance of Veterans Day, the Alaska Disaster Assistance Centers (DACs) have announced modified schedules for Tuesday, November 11, 2025. The Anchorage DAC, located at Calista Corporation – Maani Building, 1400 W. Benson Blvd, Suite 110, will be closed for the day in recognition of Veterans Day. Meanwhile, the Bethel and Kotzebue Disaster Assistance Centers will remain open for regular hours to continue serving residents affected by recent storms and emergencies. DAC Locations and Hours for November 11, 2025: The DACs, operated in partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management,…
The Alaska U.S. Army National Guard has deployed UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters to assist with recovery and relief operations in communities affected by Typhoon Halong, which caused widespread damage across Western Alaska. The helicopters and flight crews are transporting supplies, personnel, and equipment to remote villages that remain isolated due to storm impacts. Many areas continue to face infrastructure challenges, including washed-out roads and limited air access. Read More: Alaska’s Role in World War II: The Battle for the Aleutians The National Guard’s aviation units have been working in coordination with the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management…