Fact Check: For the first time ever, parts of Alaska will be under a heat advisory, specifically in Fairbanks, where temperatures are expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) on June 18, 2023.

Fact Check: "For the first time ever, parts of Alaska will be under a heat advisory, specifically in Fairbanks, where temperatures are expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) on June 18, 2023."

What We Know

On June 16, 2023, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a heat advisory for Fairbanks, Alaska, predicting temperatures to reach between 85 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit (29 to 32 degrees Celsius) on June 18, 2023. This marked the first time a heat advisory was issued for the region, highlighting a significant shift in weather patterns due to climate change (Washington Post, ABC News). Historically, Fairbanks has experienced warm temperatures, but the issuance of a heat advisory indicates a recognition of potentially hazardous conditions for public health.

Analysis

The claim that Fairbanks would be under a heat advisory for the first time is supported by multiple sources. The NWS confirmed that this was indeed the first heat advisory issued for Fairbanks, which is significant given the region's typically mild summer climate (Washington Post, MSN). The advisory was prompted by an unusual weather pattern that resulted in temperatures exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit, a threshold that is not commonly reached in this part of Alaska.

The credibility of the sources reporting this information is high. The NWS is a reliable governmental agency that provides weather-related alerts and information, and their advisories are based on scientific data and meteorological analysis. The articles from reputable news outlets like the Washington Post and ABC News further corroborate the information, providing context about the implications of such weather changes in Alaska, particularly regarding public health and climate change (ABC News, Washington Post).

Moreover, a study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal discusses the rising temperatures in Alaska and the associated health risks, emphasizing the importance of heat advisories even in regions that have historically not experienced extreme heat (source-1). This aligns with the recent advisory, reinforcing the claim's validity.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that parts of Alaska, specifically Fairbanks, would be under a heat advisory for the first time, with temperatures expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit on June 18, 2023, is accurate. The issuance of this advisory reflects a significant change in weather patterns in Alaska and underscores the growing impact of climate change in the region.

Sources

1. Association of Temperature Thresholds with Heat Illness
2. Monthly Climate Reports | Annual 2024
3. Monthly Climate Reports | National Climate Report | July 2024
4. Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations
5. Alaska just issued its first-ever heat advisory. Here's why.
6. Alaska's first-ever Heat Advisory issued as Fairbanks sees temps soar - MSN
7. National Weather Service issues Alaska's first-ever heat advisory