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The LEO Network is a worldwide network of observers and experts that share their observations of environmental change.
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Observations

Japan issues tsunami warning after magnitude 7.6 earthquake
A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake near Hokkaido prompted Japan to issue a tsunami warning, highlighting both strong ground shaking and immediate coastal hazards for Sapporo and nearby communities. Details in the post are limited, but the alert suggests authorities anticipated potentially dangerous waves following the mainshock.
Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Thousands remain without power as winds roar through Mat-Su
About 20,000 households were without power late Saturday afternoon, from Glacier View to Knik Goose Bay Road. Some railroad crossings were disabled due to wind damage.
Palmer, Alaska, United States
Mat-Su Sentinel

Magnitude 7.0 earthquake strikes near Yakutat, kicking off a series of aftershocks
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck at 11:41 a.m. AKST on Dec. 6 about 58 miles north of Yakutat, Alaska, followed by a vigorous aftershock sequence with several above magnitude 5. No tsunami warning was issued and no injuries or damage had been reported as of early afternoon.
Yakutat, Alaska, United States
Alaska's News Source

N.W.T. to support any school with drinking water as lead found at 4th Yellowknife school
Elevated lead levels were found in drinking water fixtures at Mildred Hall School in Yellowknife, the fourth Yellowknife school to test positive this year. The N.W.T. government will fund alternate drinking water for any territorial school while testing and remediation continue.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
CBC News

Maine set record low temperatures overnight
An arctic cold front drove overnight lows to record levels in Maine, with Portland hitting 2°F and Augusta 3°F and wind chills below zero. Communities opened warming centers as forecasters warned wind chills could drop to minus 30°F in parts of the state.
Portland, Maine, United States
The Portland Press Herald

Hotel guide on snowmobile breaks through ice on the Kalix River near Överkalix
A Grand Arctic Resort guide fell through river ice with a snowmobile on the Kalix River near a bridge in Överkalix while grooming winter trails. He got wet but climbed out uninjured; the snowmobile and sled sank and were to be salvaged the next day.
Överkalix, Norrbotten County, Sweden
NSD (Norrländska Socialdemokraten)

Warning about particulate pollution — vulnerable people should protect their health
Reykjavík’s Health Inspection warns of high particulate matter near major roads in Reykjavík and Kópavogur during calm, dry weather, advising children, older adults, and people with respiratory illness to avoid busy roads and for the public to use alternatives to private cars.
Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland
Morgunblaðið (mbl.is)

Slippery-ice chaos creates queues at the Skellefteå emergency department: “Casting non‑stop”
SMHI warned of icy conditions in northern Sweden, and Skellefteå’s ER saw a surge of patients injured in falls. Staff report “casting non‑stop,” with most injuries linked to extremely slippery streets and sidewalks.
Skellefteå, Västerbotten County, Sweden
SVT Nyheter

Ice conditions are extremely weak in Rovaniemi
Authorities in Rovaniemi warn that river ice is extremely weak and going onto the ice is life‑threatening. Locals and businesses are urged not to set a bad example for tourists unfamiliar with ice safety.
Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland
Lapin Kansa

Rockfall in Nordkapp: Large boulders broke loose—safety measures likely needed
Large boulders broke loose from Klubbhaugen in Nordkapp on Sunday and fell toward the parking area below. Authorities indicate safety measures will likely be needed.
Nordkapp, Finnmark, Norway
iFinnmark

Ice crossings on Peel and Mackenzie Rivers affected by above-average fall temperatures
Above-average fall temperatures in the Northwest Territories have delayed ice crossings on the Peel and Mackenzie Rivers, with officials warning this may become more common. The Peel River crossing opened later than average for light vehicles, while the Mackenzie River crossing at Tsiigehtchic remains closed.
Tsiigehtchic, Northwest Territories, Canada
CBC News

Bear attacks man in public toilet in Japan
Incident north of Tokyo comes after a record 13 deaths from bear attacks in Japan since the start of April
Maebashi, Gunma, Japan

Earthquake shakes Southcentral on Thanksgiving morning
A magnitude-6 earthquake struck at 8:11 a.m. AKST on Nov. 27, 2025, centered 37 miles northwest of Anchorage at a depth of 43 miles. Shaking was felt across Anchorage, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, the Kenai Peninsula, and as far as Fairbanks.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Alaska Public Media

Landslide: Norðoyatunnilin closed
A landslide just north of the Klaksvík tunnel entrance has closed Norðoyatunnilin, leaving long lines of vehicles stuck. Police cite widespread traffic problems due to heavy rain and urge extreme caution.
Klaksvík, Norðoyar, Faroe Islands
Dimma.fo

New avalanche in Finnmark: Avalanche danger has definitely increased
Multiple avalanches and high avalanche danger have closed roads in Finnmark, especially in the west, amid wind, snowdrift and icy conditions. Authorities report E69 and parts of Rv94 closed, with broader travel disruptions and warnings as milder, windier weather raises the risk.
Nordkapp, Finnmark, Norway
NRK

Storm, black ice and closed schools: Drive carefully
Norway faces widespread yellow alerts for strong winds and icy roads after a sudden thaw, with the worst conditions in Lofoten, Vesterålen and Finnmark. Bus, ferry, fast boat and some flight services are disrupted; schools closed in parts of Nordland.
Lofoten, Nordland, Norway
NRK

Ice glaze: Severe weather shuts down Bodø Airport
Freezing rain and slick runways halted flights at Bodø Airport, stranding 150–200 passengers overnight and disrupting air and ferry traffic across Nordland. Operations resumed around midday but with intermittent closures expected as conditions remain icy.
Bodø, Nordland, Norway
NRK
Katrine Olsen Sørgård; Marie Staberg; Thomas Fredrik Kristensen

West Dawson residents hunkering and hoping for Yukon River to freeze
With the ferry pulled for the season, West Dawson residents are waiting weeks for the Yukon River to freeze so they can cross, as unusually warm weather keeps water open. The delay disrupts access, raises safety concerns, and highlights increasingly unpredictable freeze-up.
Dawson City, Yukon, Canada
CBC News

Train disabled on the Nordland Line after reindeer collision
A train on the Nordland Line struck a herd of reindeer south of Trofors, lost power, and 63 passengers endured over four hours at -14°C before being evacuated by snowmobile and rail trolley. Several reindeer were killed amid ongoing seasonal movements that have caused multiple collisions in the area.
Grane, Nordland, Norway

Cancels all departures: “Can be life-threatening”
SJ has canceled all train departures between Narvik, Norway and Boden, Sweden due to extreme cold, warning the situation can be life-threatening.
Narvik, Nordland, Norway
Fremover

Rabid fox caught in trap
Another fox on Svalbard has tested positive for rabies after being caught in a trap, according to Svalbardposten.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
Svalbardposten

School field trip in Bella Coola turns into fight for survival as grizzly injures students, teacher
A grizzly bear charged a Grade 4–5 class from Acwsalcta School near the Bella Coola River, seriously injuring three students and a teacher; others sustained minor injuries. Authorities are searching for the bear and urging residents to avoid nearby forested areas and travel only by vehicle.
Bella Coola, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver Sun

Hurricane Melissa winds hit record-breaking 252 mph, data confirms
Researchers recorded a record-breaking wind gust as Hurricane Melissa lashed the Caribbean in late October.
Kingston, Kingston, Jamaica

Stranded pilot whale rescued in Cow Bay, Nova Scotia
A young long-finned pilot whale stranded in Cow Bay, Nova Scotia, was stabilized and refloated by the Marine Animal Response Society and local volunteers, then guided to deeper water with help from a Jet Ski. The animal swam away strongly, and responders urged the public to report such incidents rather than attempt rescues themselves.
Cow Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada
PNI Atlantic News

Heavy snowfall creates problems in Tromsø: No place to put the snow
After a weekend of heavy snowfall, Tromsø’s snow depots are full and city crews are hauling snow to the sea. To ease plowing, the city is changing parking rules to a 24/7 ban on certain center streets.
Tromsø, Troms, Norway
Tora Jarnæs Vold; Kari Anne Skoglund; Håkon Iversen

One person caught in avalanche: Dug out on their own
An avalanche on Skittentind on Kvaløya near Tromsø caught one person, who managed to dig themselves out without injury. Police say the slide was about 40 m wide and 150 m long and occurred around 18:00, involving a party of three.
Tromsø, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Rat alert at school: “It’s a rodent year”
Rats and droppings were found at Prästholmsskolan in Boden, Sweden; control measures are underway and the school says it acted immediately. The principal notes rodents have been sighted on the school grounds.
Boden, Norrbotten County, Sweden
NSD (Norrländska Socialdemokraten)

Slippery as soap in Tromsø: Police advise leaving the car at home
Heavy snowfall made roads extremely slippery in Tromsø on Saturday, leading to several accidents. Police urged residents not to drive if possible while about 70 plows worked continuously to clear snow, with more snow showers forecast.
Tromsø, Troms, Norway

Cold snap brings deep frost, snowfall and traffic warnings across Finland
Finland saw a sharp turn to winter with temperatures down to –20°C in Lapland and widespread snowfall, prompting traffic weather warnings in eastern and northern regions.
Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland
Yle News

H5N5 Avian influenza confirmed in Grays Harbor County resident
A Grays Harbor resident who was hospitalized with influenza symptoms in early November has been confirmed to have influenza A H5, a type of avian influenza. Additional testing shows the virus to be H5N5, an avian influenza virus that has previously been reported in animals but never before in humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and DOH currently consider the risk to the public from avian influenza to be low.
Aberdeen, Washington, United States
Washington State Department of Health

Power outages over 16 hours in Salla as crews work late; customers worry about freezers
Heavy snowfall caused widespread power outages in Salla and eastern Lapland, leaving some customers without electricity for over 16 hours as repair crews worked into the evening. Thousands lost power at the peak; even a mobile phone base station went down.
Salla, Lapland, Finland
Lapin Kansa

An increase in Anchorage wolf encounters sparks curiosity, not alarm
After spotting six wolves on a trail near her home, one Anchorage resident says she's seen the pack multiple times since late August.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Alaska Public Media

Early, unexpected snowfall hits southern Quebec, causing outages, tough road conditions
Heavy, wet snow and strong winds hit southern Quebec earlier than expected, causing slippery roads, power outages and some school closures. Environment and Climate Change Canada said the system intensified faster than forecasts indicated.
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
CBC

Wind tore down power poles – 80 customers without electricity
Severe winds in Nordkapp knocked down high‑voltage poles, leaving about 80 customers in Repvåg without power. Crews are splitting the line and using generators to restore electricity, with Repvågstranda expected back on the grid shortly.
Repvåg, Nordkapp, Norway
iFinnmark

Suspected leak from ship that ran aground off Tjeldsund
About 4,000 liters of diesel leaked from the grounded landing craft M/S Sørøysund near Fjelldal in Tjeldsund. Emergency crews are pumping fuel off the vessel and have deployed absorbent booms; authorities do not currently fear major impacts to wildlife.
Fjelldal, Tjeldsund, Norway
Kari Anne Skoglund; Tora Jarnæs Vold; Malin Straumsnes

100 reindeer went through the ice – at least 20 died
Around one hundred reindeer broke through thin ice at Mierojávri, north of Kautokeino; at least 20 drowned. Rescuers had to abort because the ice was too thin to walk on and too thick to use their boat.
Kautokeino, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Meråker Line closed after landslide over the railway near Gudå in Meråker
A landslide crossed the tracks between Hegra and Gudå on the Meråker Line, which is now closed indefinitely due to ongoing ground movement. No injuries were reported; buses and taxis are replacing trains while geologists assess safety.
Gudå, Meråker, Trøndelag, Norway
Henning Levold; Sunniva Skurtveit; Bjarte Johannesen

Another humpback whale found dead in the Salish Sea
A 21-year-old humpback whale, identified as Polyphemus, was found dead near Lasqueti Island, the second confirmed humpback death in B.C.’s coastal waters in just over two weeks. Cause of death is unknown; DFO and MERS urge caution to mariners to reduce vessel-strike risks.
Lasqueti Island, British Columbia, Canada
CHEK

Polar bear mother and cub enter residential area in Dikson
A polar bear with a cub has been frequenting residential areas in Dikson amid anomalously warm weather and lack of sea ice. Authorities advise residents not to approach or feed the bears as Rosprirodnadzor monitors the situation.
Dikson, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia
Taimyrsky Telegraf

One man is dead, another missing after falling through thin ice near Kotzebue
Two men fell through thin ice near Kotzebue, resulting in one death and one missing person, prompting warnings from local authorities about unsafe ice conditions.
Kotzebue, Alaska, United States
KOTZ

Two bears encountered outside home; one attacks and injures man in Akita City
A 65-year-old man was injured after being attacked by one of two bears he encountered outside his home in Akita City’s Iijima area early on November 3. Police say the incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. within the residence’s premises.
Akita City, Akita Prefecture, Japan
TBS NEWS DIG

Polar bear killed after 6 visits to Grise Fiord
A polar bear repeatedly entered Grise Fiord over four days, including after Halloween. After non-lethal deterrents failed, a local hunter shot and harvested the bear on Monday night.
Grise Fiord, Nunavut, Canada
Nunatsiaq News

Earthquake outside Kiruna: “The whole cabin shook for 15 seconds”
A minor earthquake occurred roughly 20 km north of Kiruna, Sweden, on Monday night, according to the Swedish National Seismic Network (SNSN). Residents in places including Kurravaara and Käyrävuopio reported strong shaking lasting about 15 seconds; authorities say it was not related to the mine.
Kiruna, Norrbotten County, Sweden
NSD (Norrländska Socialdemokraten)

Power back on for parts of Ulukhaktok, N.W.T., after strong winds brought down power lines
Strong winds and blizzard conditions in Ulukhaktok, N.W.T., knocked down power lines Saturday, causing a community-wide outage. NTPC partially restored power early Sunday, with crews arriving later to assess and repair damage; warming shelters opened at the school and health centre.
Ulukhaktok, Northwest Territories, Canada

Nearly all domestic flights canceled
Most domestic flights in Iceland were canceled due to weather, affecting about 700 passengers. Icelandair cited strong winds aloft causing turbulence and icing; only early flights to Akureyri and Bíldudalur operated, with conditions expected to improve by tonight or tomorrow.
Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland
Vísir

20°C below zero: Likely the coldest ever on this date
Iceland experienced intense cold overnight, with -19.8°C recorded at Sandskeið around 6 a.m., and meteorologist Einar Sveinbjörnsson says it is likely the coldest 30 October on record. Reykjavík dropped to just over -8°C, and an Icelandic Met Office table showed -20.2°C at Setur south of Hofsjökull overnight.
Sandskeið, Southern Region, Iceland
mbl.is

Wolf scare in the village – hunters keep their dogs at home
A wolf-like animal was filmed near Jarhois in Pajala, and a reindeer was found killed the next day in nearby Kardis, prompting local hunters to keep their dogs at home during moose hunting. The sightings have raised concern in the community close to the Övertorneå border.
Kardis, Pajala, Sweden

Severe ice conditions complicate navigation in the Anadyr estuary
Thick, continuous ice up to 30–40 cm hindered docking of the cargo ship FESCO Moneron at the Port of Anadyr, with successful mooring only on a second attempt. Ice navigation has been declared since October 18, restricting entry to vessels of at least Ice 2 class.
Anadyr, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia
IA Chukotka

Invasive emerald ash borer forces North Yarmouth to remove ash trees from park
North Yarmouth, Maine removed about 80 ash trees from Baston Park after an emerald ash borer infestation was detected. The wood will be processed by the Cumberland Wood Bank for local heating under state-advised precautions.
North Yarmouth, Cumberland County, Maine, United States
The Portland Press Herald

Greatest snow depth measured in Reykjavík in October
Reykjavík recorded 27 cm of snow at 9:00 on October 28, likely the deepest October snow on record, surpassing the previous 15 cm set in 1921. Heavy snowfall and poor visibility were forecast on the Suðurnes/Reykjanesbraut corridor with 50–75 mm precipitation expected.
Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland
Vísir

Low water makes fall travel on the Mackenzie River hazardous for hunters
Prolonged drought has driven Mackenzie River levels near Fort Simpson, N.W.T., to historic lows, turning a community boat launch into a sandbar and making fall hunting by river hazardous. A territorial hydrologist cites climate change, El Niño, and upstream dams as contributors, while local leaders urge stronger action and monitoring.
Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, Canada

Advocates call for safer waters as B.C. island mourns the loss of Wisp the humpback whale
A 4-year-old humpback whale named Wisp washed up on Keats Island, B.C., after a suspected collision with a tour vessel, prompting advocates to call for stronger protections and safer boating practices. Authorities and locals are urging measures to reduce ship strikes in the area.
Keats Island, British Columbia, Canada
CTVNews

Residents in Fort McPherson, N.W.T., urged to take precautions after 3 wolf sightings
Three wolves have been frequenting Fort McPherson, N.W.T.; one was shot this week and two remain. Authorities urge residents to leash and vaccinate dogs, avoid leaving food outside, and note rabies risks; traps have been set for the remaining wolves.
Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories, Canada

Norton Sound issues alert as dust troubles Nome air quality
Norton Sound Health Corporation issued an air quality alert for Nome after PM10 levels exceeded 301 (hazardous) on Oct. 23. Officials cite recent freeze–thaw cycles and dry conditions for the unusual late-October dust; residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure and use N95 masks.
Nome, Alaska, United States
KNOM Radio Mission

Locals describe ‘river running down the roads’ as heavy rain hits parts of Ireland
Intense rainfall triggered surface-water flooding in Newcastle, County Down, where locals used shovels and sandbags to protect homes as roads closed. Authorities deployed over 900 sandbags; further unsettled weather is forecast nationwide.
Newcastle, County Down, United Kingdom
The Irish Times

Driving zigzag between rocks on E45
Rockfall has sent stones onto the E45 at Kløfta in Alta, forcing motorists to zigzag between debris. Authorities warn of hazardous driving conditions and the situation is being updated.
Alta, Finnmark, Norway
iFinnmark

Will die of exhaustion or malnutrition
A reindeer in Nordkapp, Finnmark, was found entangled in trash and was freed by a passerby. The article warns that litter can kill reindeer through exhaustion or starvation.
Nordkapp, Finnmark, Norway

State of emergency issued for northern Manitoba community
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in northern Manitoba declared a state of emergency after a severe snowstorm dropped about 30 cm of snow and caused widespread power outages. Restoration efforts are underway.
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, Manitoba, Canada
CTV News

Arviat residents urged to look out for foxes after possible rabies exposure
Residents of Arviat, Nunavut, are cautioned to watch for foxes after a potentially rabid fox, which exhibited abnormal behavior and contacted dogs, was euthanized and sent for testing. The health department emphasizes the urgency of reporting any bites due to the fatal nature of rabies.
Arviat, Nunavut, Canada
CBC

Fox tests positive for rabies in Arviat
A fox euthanized after abnormal behaviour in Arviat, Nunavut, has tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn residents to report unusual animal behaviour and seek immediate care after bites or scratches.
Arviat, Nunavut, Canada
Nunatsiaq News

Remnants of Typhoon Halong bring widespread damage to Western Alaska
A powerful, ongoing storm in Western Alaska has flooded communities, destroyed homes and left some residents injured by flying debris. Officials say rescue efforts are underway after floodwaters in multiple communities swept homes off their foundations. The remnants of Typhoon Halong tracked farther east than expected, slamming into the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta coast early on Sunday morning. Officials said Sunday afternoon that the hardest hit communities appeared to be Kipnuk, Kwigillingok and Napakiak.
Kwigillingok, Alaska, United States
Alaska Public Media
Evan Erickson, Casey Grove, Desiree Hagen, Alena Naiden, Ben Townsend, Samantha Watson

Flooding, but no damage reported for Yukon Delta coastal communities after powerful fall storm
Communities are tallying up damage from a severe Bering Sea storm that brought flood warnings to a vast swath of Alaska's western coast.
Kotlik, Alaska, United States

High tide and strong winds on Iqaluit waterfront
A storm surge and strong winds pushed tides to the edge of the waterfront road in Iqaluit on Friday morning. Environment Canada had warned of higher-than-normal tides and possible flooding of ground-level spaces.
Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada
Nunatsiaq News

Mandatory evacuations ordered in Kotzebue as flooding from coastal storm begins
Flooding had already begun by Wednesday afternoon, and the weather service forecast said water could rise as high as 10 feet above the high tide line. Flood waters are expected to peak around 8 p.m. Wednesday.
Kotzebue, Alaska, United States

Flight delays and power outages as the district addresses cyclone impacts
A cyclone brought wet snow and wind gusts up to 28 m/s to Chukotka, causing power outages, water supply disruptions, and widespread flight delays. Ferry service across the Anadyr Estuary was suspended in the morning, with plans to resume service later in the day.
Anadyr, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia
IA Chukotka (prochukotku.ru)

Dead Arctic fox did not have rabies – but avian influenza
An emaciated Arctic fox found dead at Vindodden in August tested positive for avian influenza, not rabies, according to the Norwegian Veterinary Institute.
Vindodden, Svalbard, Norway
Svalbardposten

'Eventually the river wins': Dramatic video shows erosion causing Big Lake to drain into Koyukuk River
A viral video shows Big Lake near Huslia rapidly eroding and draining into the Koyukuk River, alarming residents who say recent high water and thawing permafrost are accelerating change. Locals fear the erosion could threaten parts of town built near the lake.
Huslia, Alaska, United States
Alaska's News Source (KTUU)

Storm Amy moves into Sweden
Storm Amy brought hurricane-force gusts at sea and heavy rain to southern and central Sweden, prompting SMHI orange and yellow warnings, transport shutdowns, and widespread power outages. The storm followed severe impacts in Norway and is expected to ease after Sunday, though windy, rainy conditions will persist along the east coast.
Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden
SVT Nyheter

Storm Amy: Hundreds of Great Glen homes either side of Loch Ness hit by power cuts and some flights from Inverness Airport cancelled
Storm Amy brought down power lines around Loch Ness, cutting electricity to more than 200 homes in Foyers and Invermoriston and prompting transport disruption, including flight cancellations from Inverness Airport. Amber wind warnings up to 100 mph were in place.
Foyers and Invermoriston, Highland, United Kingdom
Inverness Courier

Extreme weather “Amy” has hit – island communities in Rogaland isolated
Storm “Amy” is bringing red and orange warnings for wind and rain in southern and eastern Norway, isolating Utsira and Kvitsøy after ferry cancellations. Authorities and aid organizations have raised preparedness, with disrupted roads, flights and events, and advice for residents to secure items and stock essentials.
Utsira, Rogaland, Norway

Larger than the largest quakes in the biggest swarm
A magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck near Grjótárvatn on Mýrar this morning, the largest in the Ljósufjöll volcanic system in about three and a half months. Roughly 45 quakes have occurred since last night at 15–20 km depth, and the Icelandic Met Office notes concern would rise if activity shallows.
Mýrar, Vesturland, Iceland
mbl.is

Water flooded over the road: Homeowner demands compensation
Heavy overnight rain in Loppa caused water to flood a private access road, leaving it badly damaged. The homeowner is seeking compensation after emergency repairs were needed.
Loppa, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Asbestos discovery sparks anger from new housing estate’s residents
Residents in Inverness’s Ness Castle estate found asbestos fragments—some partially buried—and are being billed for removal, prompting anger at the developer and factor. Robertson Homes says the site was clean at handover; the factor Ross + Liddell is charging nearly 100 households for testing and cleanup.
Inverness, Highland, United Kingdom
Inverness Courier

More Kings County residents told to evacuate as wildfire grows from two hectares to 300
An out‑of‑control wildfire near Lake George in Kings County, Nova Scotia, surged from 2 to an estimated 300 hectares, prompting expanded evacuation orders around Lake George and Aylesford Lake. Strong winds drove rapid growth as crews deployed aircraft, helicopters, heavy equipment, and structure-protection sprinklers.
Lake George, Kings County, Nova Scotia, Canada
PNI Atlantic News

Bears caught on cam opening truck doors on North Slope
A group of brown bears in Deadhorse, Alaska, was filmed methodically opening parked truck doors in search of food before authorities guided them away. The incident highlights unusual bear behavior during the pre-hibernation period.
Deadhorse, North Slope Borough, Alaska, United States
Alaska’s News Source (KTUU)

Ring Road severed by high water near Jökulsá í Lóni
Iceland’s Ring Road east of Höfn was cut after a flood damaged a roughly 50‑meter section near the Jökulsá í Lóni river. Heavy rain has caused widespread high water; repairs will begin when flows subside, but the timeline is unclear.
Höfn, Austurland, Iceland
Vísir

LL warns: Do not drink the tap water
Longyearbyen authorities advise residents not to drink tap water after manganese levels spiked to about 1,000 µg/L. Free drinking water is being distributed via Svalbardbutikken and filtered bulk containers from Svalbard Bryggeri.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
Svalbardposten

Closed after landslide
A landslide at Gruvsteinan in Råndalen led to the closure of the road at the inner Rånvassbotn in Narvik municipality on 25 September. The road will remain closed until a geologist inspects the site by drone, weather permitting; no permanent residents are cut off and mobile coverage is limited.
Råndalen, Narvik, Norway
Fremover

Central Washington fires create hazy, smoky conditions for Spokane
Smoke from Central Washington wildfires pushed into Spokane on Thursday, raising air quality to unhealthy for sensitive groups and likely lingering into Friday. Forecasters cited the Labor Mountain and Lower Sugarloaf fires and gusty winds as primary drivers, with conditions expected to ease slightly Friday.
Wilbur, Washington, United States
The Spokesman-Review

Severe avian influenza detected in North Iceland
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N5) was confirmed in multiple dead gulls found at Blönduós and in a female duck found dead at Sauðárkrókur in North Iceland. Authorities urge biosecurity for poultry, public reporting of dead or sick wildlife, and caution by hunters.
Blönduós and Sauðárkrókur, Northwestern Region, Iceland

Had to close road: Stones thrown from the sea onto the roadway
In Berlevåg, powerful waves threw stones from the sea onto the road, forcing a temporary closure. Officials cited the incident as a reminder of the force of nature.
Berlevåg, Finnmark, Norway

Residents assess damage after landslides and high winds hit Elfin Cove
“It almost looks like a tornado came through, because the wind was just ripping the trees down and across things. So there’s one house that was completely obliterated. Several, several trees. We can’t even get to it to see how many… landed on it,” said resident Tyler Magart.
Elfin Cove, Alaska, United States
Anchorage Daily News

Debris Flow Event
The debris flow event at Ring Creek FSR highlights the importance of monitoring due to its potential impact on downstream communities, despite the presence of a debris flow barrier.
Ring Creek FSR

Heavy rainfall is causing flooding, landslide concerns in Southeast Alaska
Heavy rain and strong winds in Southeast Alaska are triggering flooding and small landslides, with Juneau, Ketchikan, and Wrangell on alert. Officials warn of saturated soils, rising streams, and increased landslide risk; a Ketchikan road briefly closed but has reopened.
Juneau, Alaska, United States
Alaska’s News Source

Environmental disaster threatens the Amga due to loggers’ negligence
Public monitors in Aldansky District, Yakutia, found logging waste, hazardous trash, and unremoved timber left by LLC Vostochnoe near the Amga River, warning of heightened wildfire risk and potential environmental harm. They urge prosecutors and the republic’s ecology ministry to enforce cleanup and fire‑prevention measures before the lease expires in December.
Aldansky District, Sakha Republic, Russia
Yakutia.Info

Wildfires in E. C. Manning Provincial Park
In September 2025, multiple wildfires were observed near E.C. Manning Provincial Park, BC, highlighting the increasing prevalence and intensity of wildfires in the region.
E.C. Manning Provincial Park, British Columbia

Second glacial outburst flood expected to cause ‘minor flooding’ in Juneau
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning Monday morning, saying that water gauges indicate the Suicide Basin had started to release into Mendenhall Lake.
Juneau, Alaska, United States
Anchorage Daily News

Flooding and landslides across Buskerud
Heavy rain triggered flooding and multiple landslides across Buskerud, Norway, closing roads in Norefjell, Sigdal, Flå, and Nesbyen and prompting helicopter evacuations. Authorities warn of further slides and advise travelers to avoid steep areas and follow closures.
Buskerud, Norway

Southern Manitoba communities flooded by as much as 135 mm of rain overnight
A narrow band of training thunderstorms dumped up to 135 mm of rain overnight, flooding streets, basements and businesses in Steinbach and nearby southern Manitoba communities. An animal rescue reported nearly two metres of water in its basement; infrastructure struggled to keep up but waters receded after the downpour ended.
Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada

Bear sighted near Yakutsk
A bear was reportedly seen about 34 km from Yakutsk near a gas pipeline. Officials confirmed the report but, with no damage reported and the animal not found, no culling decision will be made.
Yakutsk, Sakha Republic (Yakutia), Russia
Yakutia.Info

Village of Kubbe flooded — river rose four meters
Intense downpours in Ångermanland flooded the village of Kubbe northwest of Örnsköldsvik, reportedly dropping about 120 mm of rain and raising the local river by four meters. Residents self-evacuated, power was cut for safety, and protections were added to a bridge; additional heavy rain is expected.
Kubbe, Västernorrland County, Sweden
SVT Nyheter

Ferry port calls to Unalaska, Akutan cancelled after fall storm reroutes aging Tustumena
A powerful fall storm with hurricane-force winds forced the M/V Tustumena to cancel port calls to Unalaska and Akutan, turning back at Cold Bay. The aging ferry will remain in Cold Bay until Sept. 7 before heading back up the Aleutian Chain.
Unalaska and Akutan, Aleutians East Borough, Alaska, United States
KUCB

Maritime Authority says Havila Biogass manure spill is among the largest they’ve seen
About 3.5 million liters of livestock-based biomanure leaked from Havila Biogass in Molde, spreading from a marsh into waterways and a small-boat harbor, causing fish and crab deaths. Norway’s Coastal Administration called it one of the largest such spills they’ve encountered and will order cleanup; the company is conducting remediation and investigating a failed pipe gasket as the likely cause.
Eidsvåg, Molde, Norway

Oodles of bears caught on camera at JBER cemetery
A video captured an unusually large group of bears at Fort Richardson National Cemetery on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage on Friday evening. The filmer said he regularly sees bears there in summer and fall but never so many at once.
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (Fort Richardson National Cemetery), Anchorage, Alaska, United States
KTUU

Researcher from Italy missing after being swept into hole on Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier
The man’s travel companions lost sight of him after he fell into a stream and was swept into a vertical opening in the ice, Alaska State Troopers said.
Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska
Anchorage Daily News

West Nile detected in Grant County mosquitos
West Nile virus was detected in mosquito samples north of Moses Lake, Grant County, Washington—the first county detection since 2023. Mosquito control increased larvicide and adulticide treatments; officials advise prevention steps and note no recent human cases in the county.
Moses Lake, Grant County, Washington, United States
The Spokesman-Review

100-ton rock block fell onto Ofoten Line: ‘It’s so large it must be blasted’
A roughly 100‑ton rock fell onto the Ofoten Line in Norddalen near Narvik. Bane NOR is securing the area and plans to blast the boulder to clear the tracks.
Narvik, Nordland, Norway
Fremover

Major B.C. routes including Coquihalla Highway closed due to wildfires
Wildfires forced closures of the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt and Highway 20 east of Bella Coola in B.C., as the Mine Creek fire grew rapidly and jumped Highway 5. Evacuation orders and alerts were issued, and air quality degraded across the province.
Coquihalla Highway corridor (Hope–Merritt), British Columbia, Canada

Not normal: Ashcroft sets record for hottest September day ever in Canada
Ashcroft, British Columbia hit 40.8 C (105 F) on Sept. 3, setting the hottest September temperature ever recorded in Canada. A regional weather observer called the late-season heat highly unusual and linked it to a blocking high-pressure system.
Ashcroft, British Columbia, Canada
Lake Cowichan Gazette

Heavy rain eases, but the risk of landslides persists in the Eastfjords
Heavy rain in East Iceland has eased, but the Icelandic Meteorological Office warns that landslide risk remains in the Eastfjords following several minor slides yesterday. Travelers are urged to use caution near steep slopes and stream channels.
Seyðisfjörður, Eastfjords, Iceland
Iceland Monitor

State issues alert for toxic shellfish found in Kachemak Bay
Alaska health officials issued an alert after wild shellfish from Kachemak Bay’s inner bay tested above regulatory limits for paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins. Residents are warned not to harvest or eat untested wild shellfish; monitoring and test results are being posted by the Alaska Harmful Algal Bloom Network.
Homer, Alaska, United States
Homer News

Fort Providence ordered to evacuate as wildfire bears down
An out-of-control wildfire within two kilometres of Fort Providence prompted a full evacuation order, with residents directed to Hay River as winds threaten to push flames toward the community.
Fort Providence, Northwest Territories, Canada
NNSL Media

Whatì issues evacuation order as wildfire threat grows
Whatì, Northwest Territories declared a state of emergency and ordered a full evacuation as a nearby wildfire threatens the community. Residents were told to register at the Whatì Cultural Centre before leaving, with reception centres set up in Behchokǫ̀ and Yellowknife.
Whatì, Northwest Territories, Canada
CKLB Radio

Major emergency response in Nuuk due to fuel spill
Police and fire crews responded Thursday night to a large jet fuel spill at Polar Oil near Nuuk’s harbor. About 7,069 liters leaked but were contained in a spill basin and mostly pumped back; police are investigating the cause.
Nuuk, Sermersooq, Greenland
Sermitsiaq.AG

Massive Iceberg Spotted Near Iceland Triggers Shipping Warning
A huge iceberg—about 300 m long, 300 m wide and 75 m high—was spotted in a key shipping route north of Iceland, prompting a warning to mariners. The Icelandic Coast Guard located it roughly 42 nautical miles north of Hornbjarg during an aerial patrol.
Hornbjarg, Westfjords, Iceland
Iceland Review

Airline: Kaldoaivi accident caused by wind gust; captain got life jackets to everyone
Arctic AirService says a strong wind gust in the Kaldoaivi wilderness caused its floatplane to tip over while taxiing on a lake. The captain evacuated everyone, provided life jackets, and the group swam to shore; one person was checked at Kirkenes hospital.
Inari, Lapland, Finland
Lapin Kansa

Road under water: Dozens of tourists assisted
Rescue teams assisted dozens of travelers in the Fjallabak/Landmannalaugar highlands as heavy rain and high water submerged roads. Advisories to avoid the area appear to have worked, with few vehicles present and all travelers getting through safely.
Landmannalaugar, Southern Region, Iceland
mbl.is

The Dalton Highway is cut off after record rains hammered Interior Alaska
Record rains in Interior Alaska overwhelmed culverts and flooded the Dalton Highway near the Yukon River, closing the road between mileposts 112 and 156. Crews are responding, but there is no reopening estimate.
Dalton Highway near Yukon River, Interior Alaska, United States
KUAC.org

Feared that another house will be washed out to sea
A sheep house east of Vík í Mýrdal was washed out to sea amid heavy surf, and rescuers fear a nearby horse stable could be lost at the next high tide as winds strengthen. No animals were inside; valuables were cleared and yellow weather warnings are in effect for South and Southeast Iceland.
Vík í Mýrdal, South Iceland, Iceland

Woman mauled by bear near her Kenai Peninsula home
A 36-year-old woman was seriously injured in a suspected brown bear attack near her home on Chinook Drive in Kenai early Tuesday. Authorities are searching for the bear and urging residents to stay vigilant and secure attractants.
Kenai, Alaska, United States

Bear attacked a hunter in Posio — police say the hunt was legal
During a bear hunt in Posio, Finland, a bear attacked a hunter. Police said the hunt was legal; details were still limited as the investigation began.
Posio, Lapland, Finland

Iceland on Alert as Glacial Waters Surge from Langjökull
A sudden glacial outburst flood from a marginal lake near Langjökull sent water into the Svartá and downstream into the Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, peaking above 400 cm overnight before easing to just over 300 cm. Authorities warn further river flooding is possible in coming days, with increased landslide risk in southeast Iceland.
Húsafell, Borgarfjörður, Iceland
Iceland Review

Northerners asked to be bear aware after four animals culled in Norman Wells
After four habituated black bears were killed in Norman Wells on Aug. 23–24, GNWT officials urged residents to secure attractants and follow bear-safety practices. The community has logged 29 bear-related calls this summer.
Norman Wells, Northwest Territories, Canada
NNSL Media

High winds knock out electric lines, tumble trees in Fairbanks
A windstorm in Fairbanks on Aug. 23, 2025 felled trees and caused widespread power outages, with more than 7,300 meters down at the peak. Crews cleared a large spruce that blocked Cushman Street and restored most electricity within a day.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

High lead levels confirmed in water at third Yellowknife school
Testing found lead above Health Canada’s limit in several classroom sinks at N.J. Macpherson School in Yellowknife, the third city school affected. The N.W.T. chief public health officer ordered daily flushing and alternate drinking water while fixes are pursued.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Considered sinking it with gunfire
Norway’s Coast Guard considered using a machine gun to sink a drifting mooring buoy near Svalbard before eventually hauling the rusty steel structure aboard. The incident highlights marine debris hazards in Arctic waters.
Hinlopen Strait, Svalbard, Norway

Hail, wind left 200-km 'scar' across Alberta that's visible from space
An Aug. 20, 2025 hail and wind storm carved a 15-km-wide, 200-km-long “hail scar” across southern Alberta, visible in NASA satellite imagery. The storm devastated about 425,000 acres of crops and grassland, with severe impacts near Brooks, and recovery may take a year or more.
Brooks, Alberta, Canada

Trail of destruction in Brooks, Alta., after golf ball-sized hailstorm rips through
A fast-moving supercell brought golf ball-sized hail and 113 km/h winds to Brooks, Alberta, toppling power lines, damaging homes, vehicles and crops, and killing two animals at a local fun farm. Cleanup continued Thursday as highways were disrupted and about 1,000 customers remained without power.
Brooks, Alberta, Canada

Emma was on the fast ferry that hit the whale: "Terrible to see"
A passenger, Emma, says a routine fast-ferry trip near Hammerfest turned dramatic when the vessel struck a whale; the whale was visibly injured with blood in the water.
Hammerfest, Troms og Finnmark, Norway
Nordlys

Rock fell again onto the road where a fatal accident occurred
A rockfall struck Suðurlandsvegur at Holtsnúp under Eyjafjöll on August 17 at the same spot where a fatal accident occurred in March, prompting calls for urgent safety upgrades on this stretch of the South Coast Road.
Holtsnúp, Southern Region, Iceland

Earthquake near Langjökull: “This is the largest since 2007”
A magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck northeast of Langjökull near Djöflasandur this morning, marking the strongest quake in the area since November 2007.
Langjökull, Iceland

Four wildfires are currently active in Yakutia
Firefighters extinguished one 17 ha wildfire in Vilyuysky District over the past day, while aerial monitoring detected another 1 ha fire in Olekminsky District; four fires remain active across three districts covering 711 ha.
Sakha Republic, Russia
Yakutia.Info

Century’s Heat Record Broken
A temperature of 29.8 °C was recorded at Egilsstaðir Airport on August 16, 2025, marking the highest August temperature measured in Iceland this century.
Egilsstaðir, Eastern Region, Iceland

Despair over sick and dead birds – call for gull patrol
Residents in Tromsø find sick and dead seagulls after avian influenza detection and urge the Norwegian Food Safety Authority to deploy a weekend gull watch.
Tromsø, Troms og Finnmark, Norway
itromso.no

Low Water Levels in the Mackenzie River
Unusually low waters in the Mackenzie River during late summer 2025, disrupting traditional and commercial river transport and indicating a shift from riverbed to riparian areas.
Norman Wells, Northwest Territories, Canada

Three caravans destroyed by wind on Holtavörðuheiði
Severe winds on the Holtavörðuheiði pass in Húnaþing Vestra, Iceland, blew apart three caravans, prompting a multi-hour rescue response by the Húnar Hvammstanga search and rescue team.
Holtavörðuheiði, Húnaþing Vestra, Iceland

As a mountain crumbled Sunday, Alaska experienced its largest landslide-caused tsunami in a decade
Seismic stations more than 600 miles away picked up the rumbling as a mountainside collapsed upon South Sawyer Glacier and into the ocean at the head of Tracy Arm.
Tracy Arm, Alaska

Dead bison in N.W.T.'s North Slave region might have had anthrax
Crews plan to burn a bison carcass suspected of anthrax on Highway 3 between Fort Providence and Behchokǫ̀ this weekend, with lab results pending; drivers are warned of smoke and reduced visibility.
North Slave Region, Northwest Territories, Canada

Evacuation order lifted for St. John's suburb; wildfire destroys Newfoundland school
Residents of Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador, were allowed to return home on August 15 after an evacuation order due to the Paddy’s Pond wildfire was lifted, even as the fire continued to burn and other wildfires raged across Atlantic Canada.
Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
CTV News

Cougar family causing safety worries in Mesachie Lake
A mother cougar and two adolescent cubs have been repeatedly sighted in Mesachie Lake, B.C., since August, prompting safety concerns from residents. Conservation officers are monitoring the situation and advise precautions but say there’s no evidence of aggression toward people.
Mesachie Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Lake Cowichan Gazette

Olve (24) got a shock: The landslide went right in front of me
A landslide struck the Midnight Sun staircase in Lavangen, Norway, narrowly missing Olve Sletten (24) and scattering debris across the steps.
Midnattsoltrappa, Lavangen, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Juneau's glacial outburst flood has crested, water levels now dropping
The flood reached a record-breaking crest of 16.65 feet at about 8 a.m. Wednesday. Water continues to seep into Valley neighborhoods.
Juneau, Alaska, United States

Alaska Airlines cancels flights to Nome, Kotzebue due to volcanic ash
The plume is expected to persist in the region for at least 18 hours, according to an advisory issued Tuesday morning.
Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano, Russia

New out-of-control wildfire south of Port Alberni grows to 630 hectares
The Mount Underwood wildfire south of Port Alberni grew to 630 hectares on August 11, prompting highway closures, campground evacuations, and a power outage affecting over 500 customers.
Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada
CHEK

Wesley Ridge wildfire grows, expected to bring smoke throughout the summer
The Wesley Ridge wildfire near Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island has expanded to nearly 590 hectares, and smoke is expected to linger across the region through the summer.
Qualicum Beach, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
CHEK

Watch roofs peel off cabins
Storm Floris struck Langesund in Telemark, Norway, ripping roofs off summer cabins at a Norsk Hydro holiday site, though no injuries were reported.
Langesund, Telemark, Norway

Mountain biker suffers minor injuries in cougar attack near Squamish, B.C.
A mountain biker was attacked by a cougar near Squamish, B.C., suffering minor injuries before scaring the animal off with rocks.
Squamish, British Columbia, Canada
CHEK News

Increased bear activity closes several East Anchorage trails
Officials have indefinitely closed about 2.5 miles of popular biking, running and hiking trails in Far North Bicentennial Park and the Campbell Tract in East Anchorage due to heightened brown bear activity around salmon streams.
Anchorage, Alaska, United States

There was debris spinning: Eyewitness shares close encounter with funnel cloud in Manitoba
Amateur storm chaser Brian Penner captured video of debris spinning as a funnel cloud crossed the road near Dugald and Anola during a violent thunderstorm in southern Manitoba.
Dugald, Manitoba, Canada
CTV News

Smoke advisory issued for Iqaluit, Kinngait and Kimmirut
Environment Canada has issued an air quality advisory for Iqaluit, Kinngait and Kimmirut due to smoke from wildfires in the Prairies, reducing visibility; the smoke is expected to clear Wednesday night.
Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada

Extremely rare and dangerous: Pyrocumulus clouds develop near Snow Lake
Pyrocumulus clouds formed near Snow Lake, Manitoba, creating thunderstorm-like conditions that posed significant risks to firefighting efforts against nearby wildfires.
Snow Lake, Manitoba, Canada

Krasheninnikov Volcano Erupts for First Time in 600 Years
Russia’s Krasheninnikov volcano on Kamchatka erupted on August 3, 2025 for the first time in six centuries, following major seismic activity, sending ash up to six kilometers into the sky.
Kamchatka Peninsula, Kamchatka Krai, Russia

Multiple wildfires in the Ranua and Posio areas in Lapland – also in Tervola, Sodankylä and Rovaniemi
On August 2, 2025 multiple wildfires broke out in Lapland’s Ranua and Posio areas, with additional fires reported in Tervola, Sodankylä, Rovaniemi and Kolar. The largest wildfire, spanning 500 × 500 m, burned near Alavaarantie in Ranua by late afternoon.
Lapland, Finland

Thunderstorms rumble Finland as heat goes on
Warnings for thunderstorms and heavy rain have been issued across many areas of Finland as temperatures above 30 °C persist, with potential for hail, strong gusts and local flooding.
Finland
Yle News

Bear ravages Robert Severin's sheep flock
A brown bear has killed six sheep at a farm in Lakselv, Porsanger, and the farmer claims authorities are delaying permission to shoot the animal.
Lakselv, Porsanger, Norway

Investigating whether the site is safe
Statsbygg is evaluating if Hopen’s meteorological station should be moved due to coastal erosion and increased storm waves threatening the buildings.
Hopen, Svalbard, Norway

Forest lies like pick-up sticks after tornado – see drone images
A suspected tornado swept through Västerdalarna on July 31, 2025, toppling dozens of trees along roads between Malung and Öje and temporarily blocking traffic on the E45.
Malung and Vansbro, Dalarna, Sweden

Warning about dead pigeons in Vestmannaeyjar
The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority warns of an unusually high number of dead pigeons in Vestmannaeyjar and urges the public to avoid handling sick or dead birds without proper precautions.
Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland
Morgunblaðið

Additional Forces to Fight Forest Fire in Western Chukotka
A 99-hectare wildfire 32 km from the village of Anyuysk in Bilibino District is being fought by 20 airborne firefighters, with nine more specialists en route by Mi-8 helicopter.
Anyuysk, Bilibino District, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia
prochukotku.ru

105-year-old high temperature record broken in B.C. community
Five communities in British Columbia’s Interior, including Prince George, recorded their hottest July 30 on record, with Prince George narrowly surpassing a 105-year-old temperature record.
Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
CTVNews

Polar Bear Shot on Svalbard
A polar bear was shot and killed on Blomstrandhalvøya, Svalbard, after it threatened a group of residents; the Governor of Svalbard has launched an investigation and the four-year-old male bear was taken to Longyearbyen for examination.
Blomstrandhalvøya, Svalbard, Norway
NRK Troms og Finnmark

Increased Instances of Bears Entering Populated Areas
A female brown bear, likely with a cub, was spotted near the Dudinka–Norilsk road (38 km mark), highlighting a rise in bear occurrences near populated areas and prompting authorities to urge residents to call 112.
Norilsk, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia
Taimyrsky Telegraph

Large earthquake in Bárðarbunga
A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck the Bárðarbunga volcano under Vatnajökull about 20 minutes before midnight, and it was felt as far away as Akureyri.
Bárðarbunga, Vatnajökull, Iceland
Morgunblaðið (mbl.is)

Jean Marie River on evacuation alert again as wildfire looms
Jean Marie River has been placed on evacuation alert as the Liard Complex wildfire, about 14 km away, threatens the community, though no immediate evacuation order has been issued.
Jean Marie River, Northwest Territories, Canada
NNSL Media

2nd Anchorage-area hiker mauled by bear in under a week
A hiker near the South Fork of Eagle River was mauled by a bear feeding on salmon and sustained non-life-threatening injuries; it's the second attack in the Anchorage area in under a week.
Chugach State Park, Anchorage, Alaska, United States

Forest fire being extinguished 200 kilometers from Bilibino
A wildland fire covering about 94 ha is being fought 200 km southwest of Bilibino in Chukotka, with 20 firefighters, a Mi-8 helicopter, chainsaws, water pumps, and no threat to settlements.
Bilibino, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia
ProChukotku

I swung my fist as hard as I could: Man recalls northwest B.C. cougar attack
A Smithers man reports punching a cougar in the face during an unexpected encounter near Lake Kathlyn on July 26, sustaining minor injuries before the animal fled; conservation officers are monitoring the area for further cougar activity.
Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
Yukon News

Bear attacked man in Allaikhovsky District
A brown bear attacked a man near the Elong River in Allaikhovsky District on 26 July 2025, causing serious injuries. The assault was sudden and unprovoked. Authorities have launched a cull to control the bear population and protect public safety.
Allaikhovsky District, Sakha Republic, Russia

Humpback whale found dead in Gastineau Channel
A young male humpback whale calf was discovered dead drifting near Sandy Beach in Gastineau Channel and towed by U.S. Coast Guard and NOAA officials to undergo a necropsy.
Chilkat Valley News

SOS Overloaded with Fire Alarms: "It Takes Longer to Get Help"
SOS Alarm in Norrbotten, Sweden is experiencing extreme call volumes from approximately 20 fires triggered by lightning in a heatwave, resulting in delayed emergency response times.
Norrbotten, Sweden

Enormous fire rages in roadless land: 'Waiting for help from the sky'
A 250-hectare lightning-caused wildfire continues to burn in remote forest near Lillselet in Jokkmokk, with firefighters unable to extinguish it until rainfall arrives.
Jokkmokk, Norrbotten, Sweden

‘Devastating’ spill in salmon habitat near Port Angeles, Washington: What to know
A fuel tanker crashed Friday off Highway 101, spilling some 3,000 gallons of fossil fuels into Indian Creek. The creek is a tributary of the Elwha River, which has for years been a model for salmon recovery efforts.
Port Angeles, Washington, United States

Ruuhijärvi Swimming Area in Salla Closed for Rest of Week to Remove Dangerous Water Hemlock
Salla’s Ruuhijärvi beach and rug‐washing area is closed through the weekend after a highly poisonous water hemlock was found on the shore, and will be removed by authorities.
Salla, Lapland, Finland

Multiple Fires After Lightning Strikes This Evening
Thunderstorms with heavy lightning have ignited several wildfires across Vestland, prompting weather warnings and emergency responses in Hardanger, Gloppen, Kvinnherad, and Øygarden.
Vestland, Norway

Campground Flooded by Water: "Many Caravans Must Be Moved"
A severe downpour on Öland delivered 47 mm of rain in under 10 hours, flooding parts of Möllstorps camping and forcing relocation of about 20 caravans and purchase of larger water pumps.
Färjestaden, Öland, Sweden

Multiple wildfires blaze across Lapland, helicopters assist in firefighting efforts
Multiple wildfires across Finnish Lapland this week prompted dozens of rescue responses, with Border Guard and Defence Forces helicopters assisting amid dry conditions and an open fire ban.
Yle News

Venomous jellyfish invading west Swedish beaches
A venomous lion’s mane jellyfish has been sighted on several west Swedish beaches between Strömstad and Malmö, delivering powerful stings that can cause breathing problems.
West Coast, Sweden

Several wildfires in Lapland in recent days – so far resources have been sufficient, but nature is bone dry
Lapland’s rescue services and volunteer fire brigades have responded to dozens of wildfires and smoke reports since Tuesday amid very dry terrain and lightning strikes igniting new fires, though current resources have been sufficient.
Lapland, Finland

Forest fire area in Yakutia increases to 1,500 ha
The total area of active forest fires in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) grew from 265 ha to 1,462.5 ha on July 22, with 10 fires being fought by 306 personnel and 14 units of equipment.
Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia

Algal Bloom in the Archipelago – Municipality Urges Avoiding Swimming
Sustained high temperatures have led to algal blooms at several sites in the Haparanda Archipelago, and local authorities are advising people to avoid bathing.
Haparanda, Norrbotten, Sweden
Norrländska Socialdemokraten (NSD)

Multiple Forest Fires After Lightning Strikes
Several wildfires broke out across Överkalix and other parts of Norrbotten following a thunderstorm and lightning strikes on July 22, 2025, overwhelming local emergency services.
Överkalix, Norrbotten, Sweden

Tyva Declares State of Emergency Over Growing Wildfires
Authorities in Russia’s Tyva Republic declared a state of emergency after eight wildfires grew to over 324 hectares, banning public entry to forests.
Tyva Republic, Russia
The Moscow Times

Comox Lake wildfire grows to 4.5 hectares, still considered out of control
A BC Wildfire Service update reports that a wildfire near Comox Lake in B.C. grew to 4.5 hectares overnight as crews and aircraft work to contain the out-of-control blaze, while a separate 3-hectare fire near Nanaimo River Road also remains uncontained.
Comox Lake, Comox Valley, British Columbia, Canada

The tundra is burning
In July 2025, lightning-triggered wildfires near the Kobuk River in Northwest Alaska threatened local homes and the tundra ecosystem. The author returned by small plane to set up firebreaks and sprinkler systems with fire crews to protect his sod house and surrounding caribou habitat.
Kotzebue, Northwest Alaska, United States

Sun kinks may continue to disrupt train traffic
Over the weekend, train traffic on the Iron Ore Line was halted for nearly 24 hours due to sun-induced track kinks (“solkurvor”), a phenomenon that Trafikverket warns could recur on hot days.
Gällivare, Norrbotten, Sweden

Hot weather over weekend fuels wildfires in Manitoba
Warm, dry weekend conditions in Manitoba increased wildfire behaviour across nearly all active blazes, prompting evacuations, air quality warnings and challenges for aerial suppression.
Manitoba, Canada

Tsunami Alert Lifted After Powerful Quakes Off Russian Coast
A tsunami alert issued after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake off Kamchatka was lifted when no hazardous waves arrived, though aftershocks remain possible.
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Kamchatka Krai, Russia
The Moscow Times

Blue-green algae warning issued for Lower Thetis Lake
A blue-green algae bloom detected at Lower Thetis Lake’s main beach prompted a Capital Regional District health advisory on July 20, 2025, warning humans and pets to avoid the water.
Lower Thetis Lake, Thetis Lake Regional Park, British Columbia, Canada

4-year-old child attacked by cougar near Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park
A 4-year-old child was attacked and injured by a cougar while hiking near Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park; the National Park Service is seeking witnesses.
Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, Washington, United States
Spokesman-Review

Smoke 'thick as pea soup': Lake Spokane fire grows to more than 2,000 acres
A wildfire near Lake Spokane in southern Stevens County grew to over 2,000 acres by Sunday, prompting evacuations as thick smoke blanketed the region.
Stevens County, Washington, United States
The Spokesman-Review

Intense Periods for Firefighting Flights: 'Like a Wall of Lightning'
Volunteer firefighting flights in Norrbotten faced their most hectic period ever when a Sunday thunderstorm sparked multiple lightning-ignited wildfires, creating a “wall of lightning” that hindered access across Gällivare, Kiruna, Pajala and Porjus.
Norrbotten, Sweden

Multiple forest fires in the county
Lightning strikes from passing thunderclouds have ignited forest fires in several inland municipalities in Norrbotten County, Sweden, prompting rescue services to work to extinguish them.
Norrbotten County, Sweden
Norrbottens-Kuriren

Beached Seldovia whale returns alive to Kachemak Bay
A minke whale stranded on MacDonald Spit near Seldovia for six hours on July 17 but refloated with the rising tide and swam back into Kachemak Bay; the Seldovia Village Tribe suspects a toxic algal bloom disoriented the whale.
Seldovia, Alaska, United States
KBBI AM 890

7.3 magnitude earthquake triggers brief tsunami warning for Southwest Alaska communities
A tsunami warning that was later downgraded was issued for several coastal communities after the earthquake struck south of Sand Point.
Sand Point, Alaska, United States

Icelandic authorities give hazard warnings as fissures spread lava and smoke
New fissures on the Reykjanes Peninsula have sent lava eastward and prompted fresh hazard warnings, with high sulfur dioxide levels and drifting volcanic fibers adding to safety concerns.
Reykjanes Peninsula, Southwest Region, Iceland
Eye on the Arctic

Flooding of populated areas continues in Oymyakon District
Heavy rainfall has raised water levels in the Indigirka, Kuydusun, and Nera rivers, flooding yards in Orto-Balagay, Kuydusun, Oymyakon and Ust-Nera, and submerging sections of the Oymyakon and Kolyma highways.
Oymyakon District, Sakha Republic, Russia

The tundra is burning
With wildfires spreading in the Kobuk River country of Northwest Alaska, I just knew I needed to find a way to get home.The Nuna fire is burning still, pushed north by strong southerly winds. There has been some rain, not a lot. I remain concerned about my home. I’m worried about the caribou, too, and what brush will revegetate that tundra after these fires. I’m worried about that beautiful big land between the Jades and Onion Portage, the Hunt and Nuna river valleys.
Kobuk, Alaska, United States

Many Questions About the Algal Bloom: “What Does This Mean for Me?”
An algal bloom was detected at the municipal Lulsundet beach in Luleå on July 15, prompting warning signs and questions from residents about potential health and safety risks.
Luleå, Norrbotten County, Sweden
Norrbottens-Kuriren

River Levels Surpass Flood Thresholds Across Central Mongolia
Mid-July river levels in Central Mongolia rose above flood thresholds, prompting emergency patrols and safety advisories; 14 drowning fatalities were reported during Naadam festivities.
Central Mongolia, Mongolia
MONTSAME News Agency

NCCOS Assists Response to Multispecies Mortality Event in St. George Island, Alaska
A rapid, multi-agency response is underway on St. George Island, Alaska, to investigate a multispecies mortality event linked to a harmful algal bloom, with concerns that paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) toxins may be affecting local wildlife and human health.
Saint George, Alaska, United States
NCCOS - National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science

Grizzly bear shot and killed near Rankin Inlet
A grizzly bear wandering unusually close to Rankin Inlet was shot and killed by a local hunter after being spotted near the hamlet’s shooting range and Landing Lake. Mayor Harry Towtongie noted that grizzlies are increasingly common in the Kivalliq Region, potentially due to climate or environmental changes.
Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, Canada

Emergency services warn of iceberg near the harbour
Avannaata emergency services warn residents in Innaarsuit to avoid gathering near the harbour shop due to risk of iceberg calving triggering large waves.
Innaarsuit, Avannaata, Greenland
Sermitsiaq

New fox with confirmed rabies
An Arctic fox found at Alkepynten, Svalbard, has tested positive for rabies, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute reports.
Alkepynten, Svalbard, Norway

Abundant and tall cow parsnip
Observers report an increase in the abundance and height of cow parsnip, also know as pushki or wild celery. These conditions may be a signal of warming and wetter climate trends.
Kendra Zamzow, Wilson Justin, Gino Graziano, Katie Spellman, Richard L Thoman Jr, Lars Flora

Bear wandering through town killed by authorities
A juvenile brown bear entered Nome’s streets on July 8, 2025, and was fatally shot by Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Nome Police after posing a public safety threat. This was the first urban bear dispatch of the year amid reports of heightened bear activity around town.
Nome, Alaska, United States
The Nome Nugget

Air Greenland Cancels All Flights
Air Greenland has canceled all flights on July 6 due to a severe storm in Nuuk with gusts up to 56 knots and widespread turbulence along Greenland’s west coast, affecting travelers across the region.
Nuuk, Sermersooq, Greenland
Sermitsiaq.AG

National Weather Service issues heat advisory for Alaska’s western North Slope
This marks the first summer that the weather service in Alaska has issued heat advisories to share with residents what they can do to mitigate hot conditions. Climate scientists say those notices are likely to become common.
Wainwright, Alaska, United States

High Lightning Activity in July: Could End Up a Record Year
Norway saw over 241,000 lightning strikes in July—five times more than last year—causing fires, power outages, and heavy workload for line crews, with warnings extending into August.
Norway

Lone beluga whale observed in Oslofjord and Sunnhordland – unusual this far south
A solitary beluga whale has been sighted in Norway’s Oslofjord and later in Sunnhordland, far south of its normal Arctic range. Researchers say the animal appears healthy but is likely separated from its group and urge people to keep their distance.
Dimmelsvik, Sunnhordland, Norway

Bird Flu Detected in Arctic Foxes in Svalbard
Highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed in four Arctic fox pups near Barentsburg, Svalbard—the first detection of bird flu in Arctic foxes in Norway. Sick cubs and adult foxes were euthanized to prevent further spread.
Barentsburg, Svalbard, Norway
High North News

Taku River getting close to flooding thresholds
The Taku River near Juneau is rising rapidly due to a glacier lake outburst flood, approaching minor flood thresholds within the next 24–36 hours.
Juneau, Southeast Alaska, United States
Alaska's News Source

Hiker bitten by bear
A hiker walking with their dog in Jarfjord, Sør-Varanger, was bitten in the arm by a bear and is now receiving medical treatment; authorities warn against approaching bears.
Jarfjord, Sør-Varanger, Norway
Altaposten

Wildfires in Zabaikalsky Region Trigger Evacuations Near Capital City
Wildfires in Far East Russia’s Zabaikalsky region have forced the evacuation of residents near Chita and led to the temporary closure of a federal highway as flames advance toward towns and summer camps.
Chita, Zabaikalsky Region, Russia
The Moscow Times

Some evacuees heading home as forest fire on Eastern Shore slows
A forest fire near Musquodoboit Harbour on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore has stabilized after rainfall, allowing some evacuees to return home while others remain displaced as crews continue to monitor the 30-hectare blaze.
Musquodoboit Harbour, Nova Scotia, Canada

Interior wildfires burn across Parks Highway, prompt evacuations
Traffic on the Parks was limited Sunday due to the Bear Creek Fire, with about 100,000 acres burning in more than 180 fires across Alaska. Evacuation orders were issued for several nearby residential areas, including the Bear Creek and June Creek subdivisions west of the highway.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States

Dawson City mayor urges people to be prepared as wildfires grow
The mayor of Dawson City, Yukon, advises residents to stay calm and ready with evacuation plans as the Quebec Creek and Mount Leotta wildfires approach community outskirts.
Dawson City, Yukon, Canada

Interior wildfires: Bear Creek Fire disables cell tower as ash falls in Healy, Ferry
The Bear Creek Fire in Interior Alaska has grown to over 26,000 acres, disabled a cell tower in Denali Borough, and sent ash drifting over Healy and Ferry, prompting expanded evacuation alerts and disrupting communications.
Healy, Denali Borough, Alaska, United States
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Dozens of Pilot Whales Stranded in Ólafsfjörður
Dozens of pilot whales were stranded in Ólafsfjörður on June 21, but ICE-SAR teams managed to refloat them and guide them safely back to open water.
Ólafsfjörður, Northeastern Region, Iceland
Iceland Monitor

Bear Creek and Himalaya Road Fires Temporarily Close Parks and Elliot Highways
Two Interior Alaska wildfires—the 26,000-acre Bear Creek Fire near Healy and the 3,300-acre Himalaya Road Fire north of Fairbanks—forced temporary closures of the Parks and Elliot Highways, prompted evacuations, and led to emergency animal shelter operations.
Interior Alaska, United States
KUAC.org

Fire danger prompts evacuation alerts for multiple Yukon highway communities
Evacuation alerts were issued on June 20 for areas around Dawson City—including West Dawson and properties along the Dempster, North Klondike, Silver Trail, and Top of the World highways—due to multiple out-of-control wildfires.
Dawson City, Yukon, Canada
Yukon News

Run, run, run! B.C. hiker recounts Banff rockfall, remembers friend who died
Khaled Elgamal recounts surviving a rockfall at Bow Glacier Falls in Banff National Park that killed his friend Hamza Benhilal and another hiker, while more than a dozen others were injured or evacuated.
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Vancouver Sun

Fires near Fairbanks trigger evacuation orders as lightning sparks more new blazes around Alaska
Other new fires were reported near the Eureka Roadhouse along the Glenn Highway and near the Denali Park community. Forty new fires were reported Thursday.
Fairbanks, Alaska, United States

Wildfire reported east of Unalakleet, smokejumpers responding
A wildfire known as Rabbit Fire #176 broke out about seven miles east of Unalakleet on June 17, 2025, prompting a team of six smokejumpers, water scoopers, a helicopter, and a reconnaissance plane to respond and safely evacuate a nearby camp before containing the blaze by late evening.
Unalakleet, Alaska, United States
KNOM Radio Mission

Severe thunderstorm soaks Juneau, loosens cruise ship mooring
It was a sunny afternoon until the sky abruptly darkened, heavy rain came down and winds gusted up to 60 mph. A cruise ship docked downtown broke free of its mooring and drifted into the Gastineau Channel at the height of the storm.
KTOO

Fairbanks is under a Weather Service heat advisory. That's a first for Alaska.
The National Weather Service has issued its first-ever heat advisory for Alaska, covering Fairbanks as temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-80s this weekend.

Residents of Noyabrsk Complain of Urban Flooding After Heavy Downpour
On June 13, heavy rain with hail hit Noyabrsk, leading to localized flooding that submerged sidewalks, parking lots and even entered apartment entrances.
Noyabrsk, Yamalo-Nenetskiy Avtonomnyy Okrug, Russia
Yamal-Media

Glenferness wildfire sparks call out for Scottish Fire and Rescue crews from Nairn, Forres and Grantown-on-Spey
Five appliances from Nairn, Grantown-on-Spey and Forres battled a moorland wildfire near Glenferness from around 4 pm until after 10:41 pm on June 12, fully extinguishing the blaze.
Glenferness, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom
Inverness Courier

RCMP investigating as Squamish, B.C., wildfire doubles in size
A wildfire near Squamish, B.C., has expanded to over 50 hectares, prompting the evacuation of Alice Lake Provincial Park as crews battle the Dryden Creek fire.
Squamish, British Columbia, Canada

Agencies complete initial cleanup of diesel spill following work train derailment near Talkeetna
The Alaska Railroad believes between 800 and 1,000 gallons of fuel were spilled, according to a situation report released Monday by the state.
Talkeetna, Alaska, United States

Ship Runs Aground in Siberia’s Yenisei River, Spilling 30 Tons of Diesel
A vessel towing two barges ran aground in the Yenisei River near Kazachinsky District, Krasnoyarsk Krai, on June 8, 2025, spilling around 30 metric tons of diesel fuel over a 50-km stretch of shoreline.
Kazachinsky District, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia

Out-of-control wildfire near Port Alberni grows to 15 hectares, believed to be human-caused
A human-caused wildfire on Nahamint Mountain south of Sproat Lake grew overnight from about 10 to 15 hectares, remaining out of control as BC Wildfire Service crews and helicopters respond.
Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada

Wildfires in the Prairies Having Impact on Air Quality in Several Provinces
Smoke from wildfires burning in the Canadian Prairies is degrading air quality in northeastern British Columbia, prompting Environment Canada to issue special air quality statements and advise residents to limit outdoor exposure.
Northeastern British Columbia, Canada

Tulip Lake fire doubles in size as gusting winds continue
The Tulip Lake wildfire in Northwest Territories has grown to over 13,000 hectares under gusting winds, prompting installation of high-volume sprinkler systems in Fort Fitzgerald and Fort Smith as crews work to secure containment lines.
Tulip Lake, Northwest Territories, Canada
CKLB Radio

Air quality worsens in the eastern U.S. as Canadian wildfire smoke hangs over the Midwest
The fires have forced thousands of Canadians to flee their homes and sent smoke as far as Europe.
Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Salvage crew bound for cargo ship that caught fire off Aleutians
The vessel remained afloat as of Thursday morning, and images gathered by the U.S. Coast Guard showed it was still “alight with smoke emanating” from it.
Adak, Alaska, United States

This is precipitation that can be expected every few decades
Unusually heavy rainfall struck northern Iceland’s town of Ólafsfjörður on 4–5 June 2025, prompting fire brigade pumping operations, minor debris flows, and continued landslide and avalanche hazards. A debris-flow specialist warns such downpours occur only once every few decades.
Ólafsfjörður, Fjallabyggð, Iceland

Whitehorse saw driest June in nearly a century
Whitehorse recorded its lowest June precipitation since records began in 1941, leading to extremely dry conditions but stopping short of an official drought.
Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

Bears in the backyard: Sightings on the rise in southwest Finland
A brown bear was filmed running through downtown Loimaa after emerging from the Loimijoki River, one of several recent sightings in Southwest Finland this spring.
Loimaa, Southwest Finland, Finland

Geologist on the situation in the Lötschental: "Tidal waves and debris flows could threaten"
A massive landslide from the Birch Glacier in Blatten has created a debris cone threatening nearby villages with potential tidal waves and debris flows, as the glacier's movement could lead to further catastrophic events.
Blatten, Valais, Switzerland
Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen (SRF)

Heavy rains bring landslides, flooding to Ketchikan
Heavy rains in late May triggered multiple small landslides in Ketchikan, Alaska, blocking roads and damaging a home but causing no injuries.
Ketchikan, Southeast Alaska, United States

Evacuation order issued in northern Alberta as wildfire rages
A fast-moving, out-of-control wildfire north of Swan Hills, Alberta, prompted a full evacuation order Monday as strong winds and high temperatures fueled the blaze.
Swan Hills, Alberta, Canada

Old Crow, Yukon, residents evacuated to local school return home as flood risk decreases
Residents in Old Crow, Yukon were evacuated to a local school early on May 24 after Porcupine River levels rose sharply, but returned home later the same day as flood risk diminished under an ongoing evacuation alert.
Old Crow, Yukon, Canada

Unusual catch in Pangnirtung: Student angler harvests polar bear
During a Grade 11 outdoor education fishing trip near Pangnirtung on May 22, a student unexpectedly harvested his first polar bear after the animal repeatedly approached their campsite.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut, Canada

Snow clearing resumes in Iqaluit after blizzard shuts down city
After a blizzard knocked out power for six hours and closed city facilities, crews have resumed snow clearing in Iqaluit, though residents are advised to stay off the roads.
Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada

Whale species never before seen in B.C. washes up on Vancouver Island
A young Bryde’s whale washed up dead in Port McNeill Bay on northern Vancouver Island, marking the first known sighting of this warm-water species in B.C. waters.
Port McNeill, British Columbia, Canada

Spill of treated water reported at Red Dog Mine in Northwest Alaska
Up to 1,000 gallons of water used in mining operations reached a creek and tundra, as an estimated 400,000 gallons spilled into containment areas and a gravel road.
Red Dog Mine, Alaska, United States

Wildfires Tear Across Russia's Far East
Authorities in Buryatia have declared a state of emergency as rapidly spreading wildfires, blamed on human activity, devastate the Zabaikalsky region and the Republic of Buryatia, producing heavy smoke and burning homes.
Buryatia, Siberia, Russia

Yesterday was a terrible day: Lac du Bonnet wildfire leaves cottages, homes destroyed
A fast-moving wildfire near Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba forced multiple evacuations and destroyed several homes and cottages, as fire crews and water bombers work to contain the blaze.
Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba, Canada

Wildfires in Zabaikalsky Region Spread Rapidly Amid Strong Wind and Dry Weather
Strong winds and dry weather are fueling rapidly spreading wildfires across Russia’s Zabaikalsky region, with over 456,000 hectares burning and firefighters racing to protect populated areas.
Zabaikalsky region, Far East Russia, Russia

Avalanche near Byron Glacier Trail
On Sunday afternoon, a family on the Byron Glacier Trail in Portage Valley, Alaska captured footage of a large wet springtime avalanche that sent debris down into the valley floor. No one was injured.
Portage Valley, Alaska, United States
Alaska's News Source

Mass death of seabirds, seals, and sea otters, abnormal behavior in eastern Hokkaido
Since mid-March, seabirds and marine mammals that appear to have been infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza, which has a high fatality rate, have been confirmed on the eastern coastline of Hokkaido. 　Volunteers are conducting their own surveys in Nemuro City, and as of the 4th, a total of 614 dead seabirds, seals, and sea otters have been confirmed.
Hokkaido, Japan
毎日新聞

Fresh 3.1 Magnitude Tremor Recorded in Ljósufjöll Volcanic System
This event follows a series of deep earthquakes, the last comparable one occurring on April 23, and while no eruption has taken place in nearly a millennium, experts warn these movements could signal deeper volcanic processes.
Mýrar, West Iceland, Iceland
Iceland Review

Blizzard brings hazardous road conditions to North Finland
A late-season blizzard dumped up to 30 cm of snow in northeastern Finland, snarling roads around Kuusamo and Salla and causing train delays between Parikkala and Joensuu due to a damaged electric rail track.
North Finland, Finland
Eye on the Arctic (Yle News)

Dangerously hot in Alaska? New warnings show climate change impact
National Weather Service to launch first heat advisories in Fairbanks and Juneau this summer in response to climate change.
Alaska, United States
USA TODAY

Late-Spring Snow Hits Moscow, Toppling Trees and Causing Power Outages
A historic late‐spring blizzard on May 2 blanketed Moscow with up to 15 cm of snow—the first May 2 snow cover in 75 years—toppling trees onto cars and cutting power for over 26,000 residents. The record snowfall came a day after Moscow was hit by record rainfall and an unusually mild winter. The capital city and its outer suburbs saw 71% of the precipitation usually recorded in May in just 36 hours.
Moscow, Moscow, Russia

Wildfires prompt evacuations in parts of Fort St. John, disrupt cellphone and internet in Tumbler Ridge
Wildfires in B.C.'s northeast forced evacuations in parts of Fort St. John and disrupted communications in Tumbler Ridge amid warm, windy conditions that raised fire danger.
Northeast British Columbia, Canada

Kuskokwim ice jam brings flood advisory for Kalskag and Aniak
A large ice run jammed on the Kuskokwim River below Aniak on May 1, prompting flood advisories for Aniak and Kalskag, though relief channels kept water below flood levels.
Aniak and Kalskag, Alaska, United States
KYUK

Wildfire in Fish Creek Community Forest
A wildfire erupted in Fish Creek Community Forest within Fort St. John, B.C., on May 1, 2025, fueled by warm, dry, and windy conditions amid severe drought, highlighting the increasing risk of human-caused wildfires in urban-adjacent forests due to climate change and industrial practices.
Fort St. John, British Columbia, Canada

Third Far North First Nation evacuates due to flooding
Fort Albany First Nation declared a state of emergency and fully evacuated after flood warnings, marking the third remote Ontario Far North community to evacuate this spring.
Fort Albany First Nation, Ontario, Canada
CTV News Northern Ontario

Bat infestation closes New Brunswick school for remainder of academic year
Tobique Valley High School in Plaster Rock, N.B., has been temporarily closed and its 134 students and 22 staff relocated to nearby schools after a persistent bat infestation.
Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, Canada

Polar bear attacks and injures skier in Nunavut national park
A skier was evacuated to an emergency shelter before being transported by snowmobile to Pangnirtung’s health centre. The incident occurred early Thursday morning and the skier is receiving treatment, with no update on their condition.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut, Canada

Person rescued from car after rockslide in Lofoten
A large rockslide on the E10 at Henningsvær in Vågan, Lofoten, buried a car under boulders; emergency crews rescued the uninjured driver and the road will remain closed for days while cleanup continues.
Vågan, Nordland, Norway

3 Firefighters Killed as Wildfires Rage in Russia’s Far East
Three firefighters who went missing battling wildfires in the Zabaikalsky region of Russia’s Far East were found dead, prompting a criminal investigation amid a large-scale state of emergency.
Tungokochensky District, Zabaikalsky Region, Russia

Fire at Yellowknife landfill likely caused by wrongly tossed electronics
A small fire broke out at the Yellowknife landfill on April 22, likely ignited by improperly disposed electronics, but was quickly extinguished by city staff and the Yellowknife Fire Division.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Exit to E4 Affected – Flooding
Flooding partially blocks traffic at the exit to the E4 highway near Ersnäs, south of Luleå. Unseasonably high temperatures have accelerated snowmelt, leading to overflow in the roadway.
Ersnäs, Luleå, Sweden
Norrbottens-Kuriren

Escarpment Unstable: Localized Erosion Prompts Whitehorse Airport Trail Closure
Localized erosion from the spring melt has led Whitehorse city officials to temporarily close portions of the airport area trails to safeguard the public.
Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
Yukon News

Nunavut caribou that attacked heavy equipment tests positive for rabies
A caribou in Nunavut, which unusually attacked heavy equipment, tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn against handling or consuming meat from infected animals and to report any animals showing rabies symptoms.
Coral Harbour, Nunavut, Canada

Time for a bear: Baie Verte Peninsula town gets midday visit from a polar bear
Residents of Ming's Bight were alerted by a low-flying helicopter as a polar bear made an unexpected midday visit, prompting immediate safety precautions for children and locals.
Ming's Bight, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
SaltWire

April Storm Brings Avalanche Danger and Winter Weather
A powerful April storm in Anchorage, Alaska, has triggered high avalanche danger along with heavy snowfall and strong winds, leading to travel advisories and warnings from local authorities.
KTUU

Nearly 1,000 Gallons of Diesel Fuel Spills Near Yukon River
Around 1,000 gallons of diesel leaked from a Brice Inc. fuel truck near the Yukon River Campground on April 4, prompting Alaska tribes to demand accountability and DEC to oversee cleanup to prevent river contamination.
Yukon River Campground, Yukon Flats, Alaska, United States
KTUU

Luleå municipality closes the ice rink for the season
Luleå kommun has closed its ice rink for the season after observing a rapid melt that reduced the ice thickness by 15 centimeters over two days, raising serious safety concerns.
Luleå, Norrbotten, Sweden
Kuriren

Grindavík and Blue Lagoon Evacuated Following Latest Eruption
A volcanic eruption on the Sundhnúk crater range on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula has forced evacuations at both Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon amid an intense earthquake swarm and significant magma movement.
Grindavík, Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland

Snowstorm Slams Far East’s Kamchatka, Grounding Flights and Stranding Motorists
A powerful snowstorm battered Russia’s Far East Kamchatka Peninsula, grounding flights, stranding motorists, and triggering avalanche warnings in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Kamchatka Krai, Russia

Pilot rescued with 2 girls from icy Kenai Peninsula lake was not authorized to have passengers, official says
It appeared that the plane had landed near a glacier on the partially frozen lake, broke through the ice as it rolled to a stop and then began to sink. It wasn’t known if the pilot landed intentionally on the lake thinking the ice was more solid than it was, or whether a mechanical issue forced the plane down.
Tustemena Lake, Alaska

'Feral, almost demonic': Surge in poisoned sea lions threatens SoCal beachgoers, burdens rescuers
Domoic acid poisoning is stranding marine mammals as warnings are issued to beachgoers of the threat posed by animals that are transformed by their illness.
Oxnard, California, United States
Los Angeles Times

16-year-old killed in Turnagain Pass avalanche
A 16-year-old snowmachiner from Soldotna was killed in an avalanche at Turnagain Pass, Alaska, highlighting the ongoing danger in the area due to unstable snowpack conditions.
Turnagain Pass, Alaska, United States

Ketchikan responds to landslide that displaced hundreds Thursday
The City of Ketchikan is recovering from a rock slide Thursday morning that left hundreds of people displaced — no injuries or structural damage was reported, but the slide hit a road that connected the north and south areas of the island.
Ketchikan, Alaska, United States

Lyngen: Survivor recounts being buried in an avalanche
A 39‐year‐old Slovenian man recounts his dramatic ordeal of being buried under snow for over 7 hours during an avalanche in Lyngen, while rescuers continue searching for a missing woman.
Lyngen, Nord-Troms, Norway

Helicopter caught in avalanche in Abisko – two persons missing
A rescue operation has been initiated after an avalanche dragged a helicopter that was on the ground in Abisko National Park, with two persons currently reported missing.
Abisko, Norrbotten, Sweden

Warm Temperatures Bring Ice Melt and Flooding to Russia’s Chelyabinsk Region
Unseasonably warm weather triggered ice breakups and subsequent flooding in Russia’s Chelyabinsk region, prompting emergency evacuations and road closures as rising water levels affected multiple rivers.
Chelyabinsk Region, Russia

Danger of Avalanches, Closed Roads, and Mild Weather Cause Traffic Trouble
Mild weather in Nordland, Norway, is causing hazardous road conditions with avalanche risks, road closures, and chain traffic, leading to significant travel disruptions including school bus delays.
Narvik, Nordland, Norway

Evacuation of Several Residents in Tromsø Due to High Avalanche Risk
Authorities in Troms have ordered the evacuation of 45 residential units in areas including Oldervik and Breivikeidet in Tromsø due to a significant avalanche risk, although some residents choose not to comply.
Tromsø, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Orange warning for storm force in the mountains – dangerous avalanche situation in several places in the mountains
SMHI has upgraded the warning for storms in the northernmost mountains to an orange warning for strong winds and snow on the bare mountains, from Tuesday morning. Several places are also warned of dangerous conditions and a high risk of avalanches has been issued in the Abisko-Kebnekaise area.
Norrbottensfjällen Mountains

Warmer weather brings early bear activity to Alaska
Area biologists recommend securing attractants as warmer weather leads to earlier bear activity on the Kenai Peninsula, prompting calls for caution among residents.
Homer, Alaska, United States
KBBI AM 890

2 workers remain missing after ATV carrying 5 breaks through river ice in Mat-Su
Two people were swept under the ice on the Big Susitna River on Thursday morning while three others were able to reach safety, Alaska State Troopers said.
Sutton-Alpine, Alaska, United States

3 heli-skiers killed in massive avalanche near Girdwood
This is Alaska’s first fatal avalanche reported this season. It is also the country’s deadliest since February 2023.
Girdwood, Alaska

Iditarod 53: Mushers, dogs regroup in Tanana after 'sandstorm' flings silt near river
During Iditarod 53, mushers and their sled dogs battled high winds that whipped up a sandstorm near the Tanana River, forcing teams to pause and regroup. The unexpected conditions challenged visibility and navigation, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the race.
Tanana, Alaska, United States

‘Prepared to be adaptable’: Mushers leave Fairbanks to officially launch a historic 53rd Iditarod
The Iditarod Trail Committee announced that poor snow conditions made the traditional southern route untenable, forcing organizers to move the start nearly 300 miles north, from Willow to Fairbanks. The novel 1,128-mile route passes through Interior Alaska with a loop on the Yukon River. “We are all rookies,” Big Lake musher Nicolas Petit joked.

The Wave Drove Cars and People into the Sea
Two individuals were swept into the sea near Akranes harbor when a large swell unexpectedly engulfed the area, dragging along cars and a pedestrian. They were rescued by emergency services, with one later transferred to a hospital in Reykjavík.
Akranes, Iceland

Coastal Flooding Causes Major Damage in Seltjarnarnes
Seawater breached sea walls in Seltjarnarnes this morning causing major damage to homes and infrastructure, with emergency services working to pump out water and warnings of further flooding tonight.
Seltjarnarnes, Capital Region, Iceland

Ticks carrying Lyme disease may have infiltrated Montana; found on bird dog
A Bozeman hunter’s bird dog in eastern Montana was found with an Ixodes scapularis tick, raising concerns that Lyme disease–carrying ticks might be establishing themselves in the region.
Billings, Montana, United States
Spokesman.com

White Bear Driven Away from Uelen Village for Over a Week
In Uelen, Chukotka, a volunteer 'Bear Patrol' has been driving away a white bear for over a week after its initial appearance on February 26, attracted by the scent of stored walrus meat. The bear’s recurring intrusion has raised concerns as Uelen lies along the polar bear migration route, and similar incidents have reportedly tripled compared to previous years.
Uelen, Chukotka, Russia
ProChukotku

New explosive activity on Atka volcano in Alaska
A watch was issued for the Atka Volcanic Complex following a small explosive event that may have released a limited amount of volcanic ash. The Alaska Volcano Observatory is closely monitoring activity using seismic data, infrasound sensors, and web cameras.
Atka, Alaska, United States

'Stay alert': Unalaska eagles begin nesting season early
Eagles in Unalaska are nesting earlier than usual, prompting local authorities to caution residents about potentially aggressive territorial behavior near the nests.
Unalaska, Alaska, United States
KUCB

Forest Service warns Juneau residents to stay away from Mendenhall Glacier amid calving concerns
The U.S. Forest Service has warned Juneau residents to avoid the Mendenhall Glacier due to a large crack that could lead to significant calving, posing risks to those recreating on the frozen lake.

Glacier calves into Portage Lake, stranding 2 skaters and underscoring risks of recreation on ice
A window of cold and clear weather has drawn hundreds of people to skate, bike and walk on the lake ice in recent days.
Portage, Alaska, United States

The Wind Carried Away a Sauna in Hafnarfjörður
On February 6, 2025, an extreme wind event in Hafnarfjörður, Iceland, led to a surprising occurrence near the Óseyrarbraut roadway.
Hafnarfjörður, Capital Region, Iceland

After man disappears, locals and state officials warn of the dangers of ice skating on Chilkoot Lake
Tom McGuire, a 79-year-old Haines author and backcountry adventurer, fell through the ice while skating alone on Chilkoot Lake, triggering an extensive search by local volunteers and state officials.
Haines, Alaska, United States
Chilkat Valley News

‘He could have died’: Pro snowboarder left frustrated with rescue process after avalanche swept friend away
A professional snowboarder criticized the prolonged five‐hour rescue effort after an avalanche swept a backcountry skier down a mountain, cautioning that every minute matters in life‐or‐death situations.
KTVA

Firefighters Tackle Floods in the Capital Region Following Storm
After Friday’s storm, the Capital Region’s Fire Department responded to an unusually high number of flood-related calls, with firefighters tackling severe flooding in homes and public areas. The incident saw approximately 25 calls for pump trucks and over 140 ambulances dispatched during the event.

Rare upper Kuskokwim quake makes waves across region
A rare magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck the upper Kuskokwim region on January 29, 2025, startling residents in communities like McGrath and Kalskag, though no significant damage was reported.
McGrath, Alaska, United States
KYUK

Car plunges through thin sea ice as driver was headed to fish
A driver lost direction in foggy conditions and accidentally drove onto thin sea ice near Vaasa, Finland, but escaped unharmed. Sea ice conditions have been particularly difficult this winter, due to alternating periods of severe cold and milder temperatures which have made the ice weak and unpredictable.
Vaasa, Ostrobothnia, Finland

Unalaska jostled by magnitude 5.6 earthquake, scientists say no cause for alarm
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck southwest of Unalaska, impacting locals in Nikolski and Akutan, but poses no tsunami threat or concern for further seismic activity.
Unalaska, Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska, United States
KUCB

Person Missing After Vehicle Breaks Through Ice on Yukon's Lake Laberge
A person is missing after a vehicle fell through the ice on Lake Laberge in Yukon. Two others managed to escape.
Lake Laberge, Yukon, Canada

Multiple Southcentral ski areas closed over the weekend citing weather
Unusual weather conditions, including warming temperatures and increased rainfall, forced multiple Southcentral Alaska ski areas to close, while others faced high winds and heavy snow, highlighting a challenging winter for ski operations and backcountry travel.
Palmer, Alaska, United States

Rain leads to hazardous road conditions across Fairbanks
Warm temperatures and rain have created hazardous road conditions in Fairbanks, leading to collisions and travel disruptions.
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Storm wind left part of the village of Rytkuchi without electricity
A severe storm in Rytkuchi, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia, left 25 apartments without electricity, with wind speeds reaching 50 meters per second, causing significant disruption and damage.
Rytkuchi, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia
Chukotka

Warm winter weather wears down Interior Alaska
Warm winter weather and rain in Alaska triggered avalanches and hazardous roads, with the Parks Highway being closed due to avalanche debris near Cantwell.
Cantwell, Alaska, United States

Avalanche closes Parks Highway near Denali National Park
An avalanche has closed mile 219 of the Parks Highway near Denali National Park, impacting 400 feet of the road and halting traffic, with high avalanche danger expected to persist due to strong winds and rising snow levels.
Denali National Park, Alaska, United States

Avalanche control closes Yukon highway and advisory issued for blizzard conditions
The South Klondike Highway in Yukon is closed for avalanche control due to a deeply buried weak layer causing large avalanches, while blizzard conditions with near-zero visibility are expected on the Dempster Highway, affecting travel and safety in the region.
Yukon, Canada

Low snowpack, heavy precipitation for Y-K Delta so far this year
The Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta is experiencing unusually low snowpack and heavy rainfall, with temperatures significantly above normal for January, raising concerns about potential impacts such as increased wildfire risk and infrastructure challenges.
Bethel, Alaska, United States
KYUK

Hatcher Pass Road closed at mile 14 due to high avalanche danger
Hatcher Pass Road is closed at mile 14 due to high avalanche danger from heavy wet snow, with closures expected to last into the weekend, affecting snowmachining trails and Hatcher Pass Lodge.
Hatcher Pass, Alaska, United States

Coastal Erosion in Atka
The beach is losing sand banks during storms.
Atka, Alaska, United States

A Winter Wind Machine
The wind storms have been rolling in off the North Pacific, one after another. It is the windest winter and conditions I can recall in my years in Anchorage.

Finland set for exceptionally warm winter temperatures
Central Finland is expected to experience winter temperatures approximately 10 degrees Celsius higher than average due to a warm front influenced by Atlantic low pressure and Central European winds.
Central Finland, Finland
Yle

Kuskokwim 300 delayed 2 weeks due to low snow and warm temperatures
The 2025 Kuskokwim 300 sled dog race has been delayed by two weeks due to unusually low snowfall and warm temperatures, making it difficult to ensure safe trail conditions. This extended delay is rare in the race's 46-year history, typically only postponed for a day or two.
Bethel, Alaska, United States

Residents in Ölfus Trapped Due to Flooding in Ölfusá River
A flood in the Ölfusá river has left parts of Ölfusi submerged, trapping some residents in their homes.
Ölfusi, Iceland

High winds, temps cause outages, flooding in Southcentral Alaska
Unusually high winds and temperatures in Southcentral Alaska have caused power outages, flooding, and landslides, with gusts reaching up to 100 mph and prompting closures and warnings across the region.

Anchorage schools closed after day of damaging winds and rain
Schools in Anchorage closed due to high winds and rain that caused power outages and property damage in the area.

Earthquake in Western Norway: "It was quite scary"
A magnitude 4.3 earthquake offshore Western Norway caused noticeable tremors, with Norsar warning of possible aftershocks, marking a slightly larger event than typically felt in the region.
Western Norway, Norway

Warm Weather Leads to Wet and Slippery Conditions Across Iceland
Unseasonably warm weather in Iceland is causing melting snow and thawing ice, leading to wet and slippery conditions, with yellow weather warnings issued for parts of the country.
Iceland

Deteriorating trail conditions postpone Holiday Classic sled dog race
The Holiday Classic sled dog race in Bethel, Alaska, has been postponed due to hazardous trail conditions caused by recent storms and warm temperatures.
Bethel, Alaska, United States

Tidal action and fierce winds flood low-lying areas of Kwigillingok
On January 10, 2025, Kwigillingok experienced significant flooding due to strong tidal action and fierce winds, leading to a flood advisory and a federal disaster declaration for past damages.
Kwigillingok, Alaska, United States

The roofs of three apartment buildings were partially torn off by a storm in the Chukotka village of Lorino
A severe storm in Lorino, Russia, partially tore roofs off three apartment buildings, highlighting unusual weather patterns in the region.
Lorino, Chukotskiy Avtonomnyy Okrug, Russia
Prochukotku.ru

Extreme winds, waves and storm surge cause damage and flooding across N.L. Sunday
A high-intensity winter storm caused extensive damage and flooding in Newfoundland and Labrador, with high winds reaching 151 km/h and reports of significant flooding and infrastructure damage.
Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
PNI Atlantic News

Black Sea Oil Spill Spreads to Beaches in Annexed Crimea
Oil from damaged Russian tankers has contaminated beaches in Crimea, with significant environmental cleanup efforts underway.
Crimea, Russia

Repeated Oil Spill on Anapa Coast
On January 2nd, a repeat oil spill was observed on the beach near the Dynamo recreation base in Anapa, discovered by a volunteer team from the Leningrad region of Kuban, who are responsible for this area.
Anapa, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
Российская газета

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