Fact Check: Fairbanks, Alaska, has reached temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit twice in 2024, according to Alekya Srinivasan, a Fairbanks-based meteorologist.

Fact Check: "Fairbanks, Alaska, has reached temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit twice in 2024, according to Alekya Srinivasan, a Fairbanks-based meteorologist."

What We Know

In 2024, Fairbanks, Alaska, has indeed experienced temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit on two occasions. This information was confirmed by Alekya Srinivasan, a meteorologist based in Fairbanks, who stated that the occurrence of such temperatures is unusual but not unprecedented for the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) recently issued Alaska's first-ever heat advisory, which reflects a change in how weather information is communicated rather than a record-breaking heat event. The advisory was issued to help the public understand the severity of the weather conditions, as Alaska is not typically accustomed to high temperatures like these (AP News, National Weather Service).

Analysis

The claim that Fairbanks has reached 90 degrees Fahrenheit twice in 2024 is supported by multiple credible sources. Both the Associated Press and the National Weather Service reported this information, citing Srinivasan directly. The context provided indicates that while such temperatures are not common, they have occurred, and the issuance of the heat advisory is a new administrative measure aimed at better informing the public about potential heat dangers (ABC News, Kool 973).

The sources used in this fact-check are reliable, as they come from established news organizations and the National Weather Service, which is a federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and warnings. The information is corroborated across various reports, enhancing its credibility. The emphasis on the administrative nature of the heat advisory, as explained by climate specialists, indicates that the advisory is not a reflection of climate change but rather a recognition of the impact of heat on Alaskan communities (CenturyLink, Saudi Gazette).

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that Fairbanks, Alaska, has reached temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit twice in 2024 is accurate, as confirmed by multiple reliable sources. The context surrounding the issuance of the heat advisory further supports the claim, emphasizing that while such temperatures are unusual, they are not unprecedented.

Sources

1. Alaska's first ever heat advisory issued for Fairbanks area | AP News
2. National Weather Service issues Alaska's first heat advisory | New York Post
3. National Weather Service issues Alaska's first-ever heat advisory | ABC News
4. The National Weather Service issues Alaska's first ever heat advisory | Kool 973
5. The National Weather Service issues Alaska's first ever heat advisory | CenturyLink
6. Alaska issues its first-ever heat advisory as Fairbanks forecast hits 85°F | Saudi Gazette
7. 2024 Weather History in Fairbanks Alaska, United States | WeatherSpark
8. The National Weather Service issues Alaska's first ever heat advisory | Sitka Sentinel