Fact Check: "For the first time ever, parts of Alaska will be under a heat advisory, specifically for Fairbanks, where temperatures are expected to top 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) on June 18, 2023."
What We Know
On June 16, 2023, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued its first-ever heat advisory for parts of Alaska, specifically for the Fairbanks area. This advisory was prompted by forecasted temperatures expected to reach 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) on June 18, 2023 (source-1, source-2). Historically, Alaska has not used the term "heat advisory" as it has only recently been allowed by the NWS. Previously, the agency issued "special weather statements" to communicate similar conditions, which did not convey the same urgency (source-1, source-5).
The forecast for Fairbanks indicated a high of 85 degrees on Sunday, June 18, with similar temperatures expected on the following days (source-3). This temperature is significantly above the average for mid-June in the region, where typical highs are in the 70s (source-6).
Analysis
The claim that Alaska will be under a heat advisory for the first time, specifically for Fairbanks with temperatures expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit, is supported by multiple credible sources. The NWS's decision to issue a heat advisory reflects a new protocol for communicating extreme weather conditions in Alaska, which has historically been associated with colder temperatures (source-2, source-5).
The sources used in this fact-check include reputable news organizations such as The New York Times, Associated Press, and ABC News, all of which have established editorial standards and fact-checking processes. The information provided by meteorologists and climate specialists quoted in these articles adds further credibility to the claim, as they provide context about the significance of this advisory in relation to Alaska's climate norms (source-1, source-6).
While it is noted that Fairbanks has experienced higher temperatures in the past, the issuance of a heat advisory is a new development, emphasizing the importance of clear communication regarding weather events that could pose health risks to the public (source-2, source-5).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that parts of Alaska, specifically Fairbanks, will be under a heat advisory for the first time, with temperatures expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit on June 18, 2023, is accurate. The National Weather Service's issuance of this advisory marks a significant change in how extreme weather is communicated in Alaska, reflecting both the unusual nature of the forecasted temperatures and a new protocol for public safety messaging.
Sources
- Alaska Weather Office Issues Its First Heat Warning
- Alaska's first ever heat advisory issued for Fairbanks area
- Part of Alaska is under a heat advisory. That's a first.
- National Weather Service issues Alaska's first-ever heat advisory
- Alaska's first-ever Heat Advisory issued as Fairbanks sees temps soar
