Alaska Gets Its First-Ever Heat Advisory

Fairbanks, Alaska — For the first time in history, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an official heat advisory for parts of Alaska, marking a new chapter in how the state communicates extreme weather risks.

While Alaska has experienced high temperatures before, the NWS only recently authorized the use of “heat advisories” in the state. Previously, these warnings were delivered under the more ambiguous label of “special weather statements.”

The new advisory is in effect for Sunday in Fairbanks, where temperatures are forecast to exceed 85°F (29°C). Though not a record high, meteorologists say this kind of heat is unusual for early June and deserves more urgent communication.

“We want the public to clearly understand when temperatures could become hazardous, especially in a place not built for heat,” said Alekya Srinivasan, a meteorologist based in Fairbanks.

Not a Climate First — But a Communication Shift