Fact Check: The National Weather Service allowed for heat advisories to be issued in Alaska starting in June 2023, changing from the previous use of 'special weather statements'.

Fact Check: "The National Weather Service allowed for heat advisories to be issued in Alaska starting in June 2023, changing from the previous use of 'special weather statements'."

What We Know

In June 2023, the National Weather Service (NWS) made a significant change in its weather alert system for Alaska by allowing the issuance of heat advisories. This change was part of an effort to improve public awareness and response to extreme heat conditions in the state, which has seen rising temperatures in recent years. Prior to this change, the NWS primarily utilized "special weather statements" to communicate heat-related information, which may not have conveyed the urgency of the situation as effectively as the new advisories (NWS Service Change Notices, Understanding Heat Alerts).

The decision to implement heat advisories was officially announced in a service change notice, which indicated that the NWS would begin issuing these advisories around June 2, 2023 (NWS Service Change Notices). This change aligns with the NWS's broader strategy to enhance its impact-based decision support services, particularly in areas experiencing extreme weather phenomena.

Analysis

The introduction of heat advisories in Alaska marks a notable shift in how the NWS communicates heat risks to the public. Heat advisories are designed to alert the public when conditions are expected to be dangerously hot, prompting individuals to take necessary precautions. This is especially important in Alaska, where residents may not be accustomed to extreme heat conditions, making clear communication essential for public safety (Understanding Heat Alerts, Active Advisories, Watches, and Warnings - Alaska).

The reliability of the sources supporting this claim is strong. The NWS is a reputable federal agency under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and its announcements regarding service changes are official and widely recognized. Additionally, the change was covered by reputable news outlets, including the New York Times, which reported on the issuance of the first heat advisory in Alaska (Alaska Weather Office Issues Its First Heat Warning). This coverage further corroborates the claim and highlights the significance of the advisory in the context of climate change and rising temperatures in the region.

While there may be some skepticism about the necessity of heat advisories in a state known for its cold climate, the increasing frequency of extreme heat events due to climate change necessitates such measures. The NWS's proactive approach in this regard is a response to evolving weather patterns and public health needs.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the National Weather Service allowed for heat advisories to be issued in Alaska starting in June 2023, changing from the previous use of "special weather statements," is accurate. The NWS's official announcements and subsequent media coverage confirm this significant change in how heat-related risks are communicated to the public, reflecting an adaptation to changing climate conditions.

Sources

1. NWS Service Change Notices - National Weather Service
2. Understanding Heat Alerts
3. National Weather Service - Graphical Forecast
4. National Weather Service
5. Active Advisories, Watches, and Warnings - Alaska
6. Real time Warnings, Watches and Advisories
7. NWS Warning Search by Point or County/Zone - IEM
8. Alaska Weather Office Issues Its First Heat Warning