Heavy rain caused the Koyukuk River to flood Allakaket, prompting Alaska’s governor to declare a disaster, evacuations of residents, and emergency aid operations. Nearby areas also faced high water, with Denali National Park campgrounds briefly reopening before being closed again.

Alatna and Koyukuk River water level rise in three days raising concerns for transportation, and community is on emergency flood watch.

Unusual coloration in bears is often the result of a recessive gene combination. According to researchers at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, light colored bears have been found in Interior Alaska, although this is the first observation of one submitted to LEO.

Severe permafrost thaw and erosion along Koyukuk River banks.