Alaska is experiencing extreme cold with temperatures well below zero, leading to record snowfall in Juneau and Anchorage.
Fairbanks saw temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, causing heating and infrastructure problems.
Anchorage’s mayor declared an emergency and opened warming centers, while businesses were warned to clear snow from rooftops to prevent collapses.
“That’s a pretty solid streak,” National Weather Service meteorologist Dustin Saltzman said.
Schools have faced closures and remote learning days.
“I’ve never experienced anything that cold, but here I think I’m mostly annoyed with the snow,” Anchorage resident DuShan Vujnovic said. “I drive a white car, so sometimes it’s hard to even find it in the snow after two days of not leaving the house.”
Despite the challenges, some residents are finding ways to enjoy the winter outdoors, while others are struggling to cope with the harsh conditions.
“It’s been cold, and we’ve had a ton of snow,” retired Anchorage doctor Paul Ferucci said. “And really, if you like the outdoors in the winter, it’s been one of the best winters so far that I can remember.”
