By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | February 2026
Storm alerts, community updates, and a few ways to make your day more fun. Here’s your essential Alaska rundown. Stay informed, stay curious, and don’t miss the highlights at the end.
Storm Assistance Deadlines
Alaskans impacted by the December 2025 Mat-Su windstorm have until Feb. 20, 2026 to apply for State Individual Assistance and Temporary Housing. The program helps cover home, transportation, and personal emergency damages. Apply online at DHS&EM IA Registration or by phone at 1-844-445-7131. The hotline will be closed for Presidents Day, so plan accordingly.
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Saving Paws, Strengthening Community
The Fairbanks North Star Borough assembly will vote on a new animal shelter this Thursday. The project addresses failing infrastructure and aims to strengthen public health and safety through modern, humane facilities. Attend in person, stream online at FNSB.gov, or tune in to KUAC 89.9 to weigh in.
Public Safety Alerts
North Slope Borough residents who have been issued Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) should contact their Village Search & Rescue Coordinator to schedule an inspection and update. Keeping PLBs registered and fully operational ensures emergency responders can act quickly when needed. Questions can be directed to Brower Frantz at (907) 852-2822 or Brower.Frantz@north-slope.org.
Travel Alerts and Tarmac Tales
Travelers using Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport should plan for delays as the South Terminal rental car tunnel is currently closed for maintenance. The closure affects access between the terminal and the rental car facility, so travelers should allow extra time and follow posted signage for safe and efficient navigation.
Splash Time: Where to Freshen Up in Utqiagvik
In Utqiagvik, Piuraagvik showers are available daily from 9 a.m. to noon, with additional access tonight at Barrow High School from 9 to 10:30 p.m. Alaska DOT is also reminding residents to avoid dumping snow in rivers, creeks, storm drains, or along riverbanks. Even snow that appears clean can carry pollutants like road salt, litter, and vehicle fluids that harm waterways during snowmelt.
Snow Today, Rivers Tomorrow
“Residents are reminded not to dump snow in rivers, storm drains, or along riverbanks to prevent pollution, photo courtesy of Alaska DOT & PF.
Alaska DOT & PF is reminding residents that even clean-looking snow can carry pollutants like road salt, litter, pet waste, and vehicle fluids. When snow melts, these contaminants can flow directly into rivers and streams. Avoid dumping snow in waterways, storm drains, or along riverbanks to help keep Alaska’s waterways clean during winter.
Health Alerts
The Anchorage School District will host a free vaccine clinic on Wednesday, February 18, from 2 to 7 p.m. at the ASD Education Center Atrium. The clinic will provide state-required vaccines for students and adults, as well as flu shots. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay current on immunizations.
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Learn, Play, and Parade Through Alaska
Alaskans can show their Green and Gold spirit by joining the University of Alaska Anchorage in the Fur Rondy Grand Parade on Saturday, February 28. Registration is required by Wednesday, February 25. Participants should meet in the downtown staging area by 9:30 a.m., with the parade starting at 10:30 a.m. UAA hats or scarves will be provided, and participants are encouraged to dress warmly and wear Green and Gold or club/team attire. In Juneau, teens ages 13 to 19 can register for a six-session on-screen acting course beginning March 2 at the Zach Gordon Youth Center. Led by professional actor Bostin Christopher, the $75 course is limited to just 10 students and offers hands-on instruction in performing for film and video.
Summer Fun and Local Giveaways
The Poker Flat Research Range is offering free summer walking tours on select dates from June through August. Tours start at 2 p.m., with the gate opening at 1:30 p.m. No tickets are required, just show up to explore the range and learn about its work.
Perkup Espresso is spreading Valentine’s Day cheer with a giveaway in partnership with Borealis Candy Bouquets LLC. Two winners will receive a candy bouquet and a $25 gift card. To enter, participants should like the post, comment on what they love about Perkup Espresso, and tag a friend. Winners will be announced publicly on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, at noon.
