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Alaska Earthquake Center Reports Second-Tallest Tsunami in 2025, Impacting Cruise Industry

Alaska Earthquake Center Reports Second-Tallest Tsunami in 2025, Impacting Cruise Industry

In 2025, a massive landslide in Alaska's Tracy Arm Fjord triggered the second-tallest tsunami ever recorded, with a wave reaching 1,578 feet. The event occurred on August 10, 2025, when a landslide the size of 12 city blocks fell into the South Sawyer Glacier, creating a tsunami that went largely undetected. The Alaska Earthquake Center, led by research seismologist Ezgi Karasözen, highlighted the unprecedented scale of the event. Seismic activity was noted days before the landslide, but the signals were too weak to be identified as earthquakes. The tsunami caused significant ecological damage, stripping vegetation from the fjord's steep rock walls. Although no injuries were reported, the event has led to multiple cruise lines avoiding the area this summer, impacting the local tourism industry.

Alaska Landslide Triggers Second-Largest Recorded Tsunami, Raising Climate Concerns

Alaska Landslide Triggers Second-Largest Recorded Tsunami, Raising Climate Concerns

A massive landslide in Tracy Arm fjord, Alaska, on August 10, 2025, caused a tsunami with waves reaching 481 meters, the second-largest ever recorded. The landslide, involving 64 million cubic meters of rock, was triggered by a retreating glacier destabilizing the terrain. The tsunami created a seiche, a reflecting wave that persisted for 36 hours. The event occurred in a remote area, sparing nearby cruise ships from disaster. Researchers reconstructed the event using satellite images, seismic data, and computer models, highlighting the role of climate change in increasing the frequency of such events.

Alaska wildlife agents can kill bears from helicopters in an effort to protect caribou, judge says

Alaska wildlife agents can kill bears from helicopters in an effort to protect caribou, judge says

A judge says Alaska wildlife agents can resume shooting and killing bears as part of a plan to help recover a herd of caribou that was once an important source of food for Alaska Native hunters

NASA Observes Rare Arctic Storm and Cloud Formations Over Alaska

NASA Observes Rare Arctic Storm and Cloud Formations Over Alaska

NASA has captured striking images of a rare arctic storm and unique cloud formations over Alaska. The images, taken on March 19, 2026, reveal a polar low, a compact storm system with tropical storm-force winds, located southwest of Anchorage. The storm developed as cold polar air moved over warmer waters, generating snow and thunderstorms. Additionally, the satellite images show 'cloud streets' and von Kármán vortex streets, patterns formed by the interaction of cold air with the ocean and island terrain. These phenomena are part of a broader pattern of cold and stormy weather in Alaska.

NASA Captures Rare Arctic Storm Over Alaska, Revealing Unstable Atmospheric Conditions

NASA Captures Rare Arctic Storm Over Alaska, Revealing Unstable Atmospheric Conditions

NASA satellites captured striking images of a rare arctic storm over southern Alaska, marking the end of winter 2026 with colder-than-average temperatures and heavy snowfall. The atmospheric instability was highlighted by the formation of 'cloud streets' over the Gulf of Alaska, a phenomenon where cold, dry air flows over warmer waters, creating long, parallel bands of clouds. This setup was driven by a low-pressure system over the Gulf and high pressure across eastern Russia and northern Alaska, pushing frigid Arctic air southeastward. The storm system, identified as a polar low, reached tropical storm-force winds, generating snow and thunderstorms near its center. The event is part of a broader pattern of persistent cold and stormy weather in Alaska, with more unsettled conditions expected as an atmospheric river approaches.

Tornadoes cut across Mississippi as severe storms damage 500 homes

Tornadoes cut across Mississippi as severe storms damage 500 homes

Powerful storms that included at least three tornadoes tore through several Mississippi counties, damaging nearly 500 homes, tearing up trees and downing power lines

NASA Captures Rare Arctic Storm Over Alaska, Highlighting Unstable Weather Patterns

NASA Captures Rare Arctic Storm Over Alaska, Highlighting Unstable Weather Patterns

NASA's Earth Observatory has captured a striking image of a rare arctic storm over Alaska, marking the end of winter 2026 with dramatic weather conditions. On March 19, 2026, a NASA satellite documented the atmospheric instability over southern Alaska, where colder-than-average temperatures and heavy snowfall were prevalent. The storm was characterized by 'cloud streets,' long parallel bands of clouds formed as cold, dry air from the Arctic moved over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Alaska. This phenomenon occurs when the air picks up heat and moisture from the ocean, creating clouds as warmer air rises and cooler air sinks. Additionally, the satellite captured von Kármán vortex streets near Unimak Island, a pattern of swirling clouds formed by strong winds interacting with elevated terrain. A significant feature of the storm was a polar low, a compact storm system with tropical storm-force winds, located southwest of Anchorage. This system brought snow and thunderstorms, contributing to the cold and stor...

Kansas City Faces Increased Tornado Activity Amid Climate Concerns

Kansas City Faces Increased Tornado Activity Amid Climate Concerns

The Kansas City area has been experiencing frequent tornado warning sirens this year, with expectations for continued severe weather. According to Zachary Leasor, a state climatologist with the University of Missouri, rising temperatures, potentially linked to climate change, have extended the region's tornado and severe weather season. This development has prompted discussions on the impact of climate change on local weather patterns, as reported by KCUR's Kansas City Today podcast.

Canadian Lake Disappears After Sudden Collapse, Impacting Local Ecosystem

Canadian Lake Disappears After Sudden Collapse, Impacting Local Ecosystem

Lake Rouge in Quebec, Canada, has completely drained after its bank collapsed in a landslide-like event. The lake, known for its emoji-like appearance from above, was a significant resource for the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi, who used it for hunting and fishing. The collapse led to an outburst flood, with the lake's water traveling approximately 6 miles to Doda Lake, turning it into a muddy expanse. The event is attributed to a combination of factors, including recent wildfires that destabilized the soil and logging activities that accelerated snowmelt. The region's geological history, having been covered by ice sheets until 20,000 years ago, also contributed to the landscape's vulnerability.

Rapid Snowmelt Causes Flooding in Prairie Regions

Rapid Snowmelt Causes Flooding in Prairie Regions

Rapid snowmelt has triggered flooding in several areas of the Canadian Prairies, causing delays in agricultural activities such as seeding. The sudden rise in temperatures has accelerated the melting process, leading to an overflow in rivers and streams. This situation is impacting local farmers who are preparing for the planting season. The flooding is particularly concerning as it may affect crop yields and the overall agricultural output for the year. According to SteinbachOnline, the flooding has been significant enough to warrant attention from local authorities and agricultural experts who are monitoring the situation closely.

5.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Oaxaca, Mexico, No Immediate Damage Reported

5.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Oaxaca, Mexico, No Immediate Damage Reported

A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck the Mexican state of Oaxaca on Monday morning, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located about one mile southeast of Zocoteaca de León, at a depth of nearly 14 miles. Despite the significant magnitude, there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The region is known for its seismic activity, and the event has prompted local authorities to remain vigilant for any aftershocks or further developments.

Colorado Faces Severe Drought and Increased Wildfire Risk, State Prepares Response

Colorado Faces Severe Drought and Increased Wildfire Risk, State Prepares Response

Colorado is experiencing severe drought conditions, with 97% of the state affected, leading to an increased risk of wildfires, particularly in the Front Range and western regions. Governor Jared Polis and state officials have activated a Drought Task Force and unveiled the 2026 Wildfire Preparedness Plan, which includes investments in firefighting resources. The plan emphasizes rapid initial attack strategies and public awareness to prevent human-caused ignitions. The state has enhanced its firefighting capabilities with a fleet of aircraft and helicopters equipped for early detection and rapid response.