Alaska is a U.S. state situated in the northwest extremity of the North American continent, sharing the upper portion of the landmass with Canada. The area is vast, covering some 663,000 square miles, which makes it double the size of Texas.
Alaska boasts some stunning wildlife and scenery. This array is slightly brighter and warmer than normal. In May the state recorded a temperature of 91 degrees Fahrenheit (close to 33 degree Celsius). This temperature, said to be the warmest in 91 years, was recorded at Eagle. Eagle is is a city located along the south bank of the Yukon River near the U.S.-Canada border.
According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Alaska recorded its warmest May since records began. The Agency states:
“The Alaska statewide average temperature for May was the warmest on record in 91 years of record keeping at 44.9°F, 7.1°F above average. The warmth in Alaska was widespread with several cities were record warm, including Barrow and Juneau.”
According to The Washington Post, the higher than expected temperature have led to an early thawing of snow. While the warm weather may be good news for sun-lovers, the commentary in the newspaper sounds an alarm about global warming.
In other news relating to Alaska, it has been reported that The Arctic Challenger, a boat owned by the Shell Oil corporation, has entered Alaskan waters. The mission is to survey the area for oil and gas; if found, this could lead to controversial drilling in the region and a clash between big oil companies, the government and environmental groups.
