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23h ago

Alaska Issues First-Ever Heat Advisory for Fairbanks as Temperatures Climb Toward 86°F

The advisory highlights how heat-retaining structures leave residents exposed to health risks during mid-80s weather.

© Jacob Boomsma via Shutterstock
People with their dogs swarm to DeLong Lake hoping to stay cool in the record breaking heat in Anchorage, Alaska, Friday, July 5, 2019.
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Overview

  • On June 2, NWS Fairbanks and Juneau offices were granted the authority to issue heat advisories in Alaska for the first time.
  • On June 12, NWS Fairbanks issued the inaugural advisory for Sunday, June 15, warning of temperatures up to 86°F from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
  • Alaska's average annual air temperature has risen by 3°F over the past 60 years, nearly double the rate of the lower 48 states.
  • Buildings in Fairbanks are built to retain heat and generally lack air conditioning, heightening the risk of heat stress during temperature spikes.
  • Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities and check on vulnerable populations during the advisory period.