Chapter 1: Unusual Winter Winds in Alaska

This winter, Alaska has experienced weather akin to something out of a fantasy tale, reminiscent of Dorothy's adventures in the Wizard of Oz. While we pride ourselves on resilience in the Last Frontier, the current climate is anything but ordinary.

Since November, we've endured relentless winds ranging from 40 to 100 mph—hurricane strength—combined with snowstorms and bone-chilling temperatures plummeting to -40 and even -60 degrees. The result? Massive snow drifts are taking over our landscapes.

The winds howl incessantly, disrupting our sleep and filling the nights with an overwhelming noise. I find solace in my Venetian blinds, hoping they hold against the fierce gusts that threaten to shatter our windows.

Many of us are perpetually tired due to the winds that keep us awake, and the power outages have severed landline connections for both homes and businesses, a rarity in Alaska's history. Some areas have experienced destruction reminiscent of tornadoes seen in the lower 48 states.

During a recent business call, a resident from Wasilla shared that the winds had stripped the shingles off his house, uprooted cable boxes, and caused severe structural damage to several nearby properties, with one business entirely encased in ice and unreachable. This is just a glimpse into what his neighborhood faced.

Having lived in Alaska for over four decades, I can't help but ponder the chaotic shifts in our weather patterns. It raises the question: how long will this bizarre weather persist?

Stay vigilant and safe, no matter where you are in the world.

Thank you for reading,

Barb Ann

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Chapter 2: The Impact of Weather on Community Life

In this video, we explore the resilience of Alaskans facing extreme weather conditions, highlighting their community spirit and adaptability.

The Middle Of The Night Wonder

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Kindness | 1950’s Snow-Storm In The Oranges

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