Fact Check: The National Weather Service recently allowed for heat advisories to be issued in Alaska, changing from 'special weather statements' to heat advisories to better convey the severity of weather conditions.

Fact Check: "The National Weather Service recently allowed for heat advisories to be issued in Alaska, changing from 'special weather statements' to heat advisories to better convey the severity of weather conditions."

What We Know

The National Weather Service (NWS) has indeed made a significant change in how it communicates heat-related weather hazards in Alaska. As of June 2025, the NWS has transitioned from using "special weather statements" to issuing "heat advisories" in regions like Juneau, Alaska. This change aims to better inform the public about potentially dangerous heat conditions, as Alaska is not typically accustomed to high temperatures (source-1). The NWS has stated that this new advisory system is intended to convey the seriousness of the weather conditions more effectively (source-5).

Analysis

The claim that the NWS has shifted from "special weather statements" to "heat advisories" in Alaska is supported by multiple sources. The official notice from the NWS confirms this transition, indicating that any notifications regarding heat-related hazards will now be communicated using heat advisories instead of special weather statements (source-1).

Additionally, reports from reputable news outlets such as AP News and USA Today also corroborate this change, emphasizing the importance of the advisory system in alerting the public to the dangers of extreme heat, especially in a region where such temperatures are uncommon (source-5, source-7).

However, while the sources reporting on this change are generally reliable, the context surrounding the implementation of heat advisories in Alaska raises questions about the frequency and severity of heat events in the region. The NWS's decision reflects a growing recognition of climate change impacts, which may lead to more frequent heat advisories in the future (source-6).

Conclusion

Needs Research. While the evidence supports the claim that the NWS has changed its advisory system in Alaska from "special weather statements" to "heat advisories," further investigation is needed to understand the broader implications of this change, including the frequency of heat advisories and the public's response to them. The transition appears to be a proactive measure in response to changing climate patterns, but more data on its effectiveness and public awareness is necessary.

Sources

1. PDF NOUS41 KWBC 301205 PNSWSH National Weather Service Headquarters Silver ...
2. National Weather Service
3. 10 - Operations & Services
4. Understanding Heat Alerts
5. The National Weather Service issues Alaska's first ever heat advisory
6. How a meteorologist from Texas issued Alaska's first heat advisory ...
7. Why Alaska has issued its first heat advisory - USA TODAY
8. National Weather Service issues Alaska's first-ever heat advisory