Author: The Tundra Drums Staff

The Tundra Drums Staff is a team of writers and editors who are passionate about bringing you the latest and most reliable news from Alaska and around the world. We make sure each story is easy to understand, clear, and based on trustworthy sources. Our goal is to keep you informed with news that matters and helps you stay connected to the world.

seward highway fire

The Anchorage Fire Department (AFD) and Anchorage Police Department (APD) responded early Thursday morning to a vehicle accident near Mile 114 of the Seward Highway. Officials reported that emergency crews arrived on scene shortly after the call came in, working to secure the area and assist those involved. Details about injuries or the number of vehicles involved have not yet been released. At 5:00 a.m., authorities confirmed that the scene had been fully cleared, and traffic is moving normally through the area. Also Read: Caribou Hotel in Glennallen Destroyed After Early Morning Fire; All Occupants Safe Drivers are reminded to…

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winter wildlife series

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is set to launch its 2025–2026 Winter Wildlife Series next week, beginning with an in-depth presentation on Alaska’s wood bison herds and ongoing restoration efforts. The first talk in the series will be held on Thursday, December 11th at 7 p.m., featuring wood bison biologist Tom Seaton, who will share the latest updates on herd behavior, population health, habitat challenges, and long-term recovery plans for wood bison across the state. Wood bison, once extinct in Alaska, have been part of an ongoing conservation and reintroduction effort led by ADF&G and partners. The…

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cabins

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is preparing to launch a new online reservation system for its Northern Region Public Use Cabins, aiming to offer residents and visitors a more convenient, streamlined way to book cabins year-round. To complete the transition, the current reservation system will be temporarily closed from December 1–7, 2025. During this shutdown period, no new reservations can be made, and existing reservations cannot be modified. ADF&G says the upgrade will allow cabin users to make reservations anytime, 24/7, without needing to rely on the older, more limited system. The new platform is expected to…

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bark in the park

Alaska State Parks is inviting families and their four-legged friends to join the annual Bark in the Park celebration at Finger Lake State Recreation Site on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The holiday-themed event will feature photos with Santa, free hot drinks, prizes, and plenty of activities designed for dog lovers. Visitors are encouraged to bring their pets, holiday cheer, and a leash. Organizers say this year’s prizes include free dog grooming, a 2026 Alaska State Park annual parking pass, and other giveaways aimed at supporting local pet owners and park visitors. All donations from…

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FEMA-worker-assisting-Fairbanks-resident

For Immediate Release November 28, 2025 DR-4893-AK MA-002 FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610Email: fema-r10-newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov ANCHORAGE, Alaska — State of Alaska and FEMA teams will be in Fairbanks from December 1–3 to help people affected by the October West Coast Storms.This in-person support is especially for survivors who were displaced from villages and need assistance with their recovery. At the site, survivors can: Location & Hours:Noel Wien Library1215 Cowles StreetFairbanks, AK 99701Open daily: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. How to Register for FEMA Assistance Survivors may also apply without visiting in person: Deadline to apply for FEMA assistance: December 22, 2025…

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broken into apartment

A 50-year-old man was arrested Sunday after a resident reported finding an intruder asleep on their living room couch and refusing to leave, according to police. Anchorage police responded to the call after the resident contacted authorities, stating that a man had entered their apartment without permission, made himself comfortable, and declined to exit when confronted. Officers arrived and identified the suspect as Jose Harvey, 50. According to the incident report, Harvey had allegedly entered the apartment unlawfully and was found sleeping on the couch. Police say he refused multiple requests to leave, prompting the resident to notify authorities. Also…

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pet traps

As winter recreation increases across the state, officials are reminding Alaskans that trapping season is in full swing, and traps may be present on many popular trails used by skiers, snowmachiners, dog walkers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Trapping in Alaska begins as early as September and can run through May, with peak activity occurring November through March. Because some traplines overlap with maintained winter trails, residents are urged to stay alert while traveling outdoors. Guidance for Trappers Officials ask trappers to be mindful of other trail users when placing sets. Alaska’s Trapper’s Code of Ethics, printed on the back of…

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shooting

Investigators examining the shooting that left two National Guardsmen critically injured near the White House have begun uncovering new factors that may have played a role in the attack, including the recent death of an Afghan commander and signs of financial distress tied to the suspect. According to early findings, investigators are reviewing whether the suspect experienced mounting personal and financial pressure in the weeks leading up to the shooting. Officials also confirmed that the death of an Afghan military commander, whom the suspect reportedly had past connections with, has emerged as a potential element in understanding the suspect’s state…

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ice safety

With December approaching and temperatures rising and falling across much of the state, officials are reminding Alaskans that early-season ice can be dangerous and highly unpredictable. The fluctuating weather has created conditions where ice may look solid but is not safe to walk, skate, or travel on. Safety officials say this is the time of year when accidents are most common, as lakes and rivers freeze unevenly and moving water prevents uniform ice formation. Residents are urged to follow essential ice-safety guidelines: Avoid weak or unreliable ice Stay away from areas with slushy ice, ice that has thawed and refrozen,…

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venezuela

Former President Donald Trump said this week that Venezuelan airspace should be considered closed, signaling a more confrontational stance as tensions continue to rise between the U.S. and Venezuela’s government. Trump’s comments come amid ongoing regional instability and increased scrutiny of Venezuelan military activity. While his statement drew immediate attention, no formal policy announcement has been issued by U.S. officials, and commercial aviation guidance remains unchanged at this time. Aviation restrictions involving Venezuela have historically been tied to safety concerns, sanctions, and diplomatic friction. The U.S. suspended commercial flights between the two countries in 2019, but Trump’s latest remarks appear…

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contract

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) has officially opened a Request for Proposals (RFP) for agencies interested in managing and expanding the airport’s advertising program, marking a major opportunity for firms in marketing, media, and brand development. Airport officials say the selected agency will be responsible for shaping the look, feel, and visibility of advertising throughout ANC—one of the busiest cargo and passenger hubs in the country. The contract will cover strategy, placement, creative coordination, and management of advertising assets seen by millions of travelers each year. The airport described the opportunity as well-suited for companies focused on creative branding,…

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earthquake 3

A strong 6.0 earthquake shook Southcentral Alaska early Thursday morning, prompting the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) to launch immediate safety inspections across the region. DOT&PF crews are currently assessing critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, airports, and tunnels, to ensure there is no structural damage following the seismic event. Officials say major travel disruptions are unlikely, but inspections are required after any significant earthquake to confirm that transportation routes remain safe. Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor updates throughout the day. Any findings or travel impacts will be posted on DOT&PF’s official channels and the 511…

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