By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | January 2026
From easing evacuation orders in Juneau to an early shakeup in Alaska’s U.S. Senate race, today’s headlines span public safety, politics, and community resilience. Here’s what Alaskans need to know right now.
Juneau Avalanche Advisory Lifted, Shelter Remains Open
The City and Borough of Juneau has lifted its avalanche evacuation advisory for all known slide paths, including the Behrends pathway. Officials reported no avalanche activity overnight despite heavy rain, high winds, and warm temperatures at higher elevations. AKDOT&PF drone inspections showed saturated upper start zones did not release, allowing risk levels to drop enough to lift evacuations for now.
Officials caution that avalanche danger remains elevated and future advisories remain possible. Residents should stay alert. Thane Road has reopened.
The emergency shelter at Centennial Hall remains open and fully operational, offering cots, hot meals, and pet accommodations in partnership with Juneau Animal Rescue.
Murkowski, Shaheen Introduce NATO Unity Protection Act
U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at blocking any U.S. attempt to seize Greenland by force. The NATO Unity Protection Act would prohibit Defense and State Department funds from being used to blockade, occupy, annex, or otherwise assert control over the sovereign territory of a NATO ally without consent or approval from the North Atlantic Council.
The bill responds to recent rhetoric from President Trump regarding potential U.S. control of Greenland. Murkowski warned that using American power against allies would undermine U.S. values and security, while Shaheen said such actions would fracture NATO and benefit U.S. adversaries.
Trump’s reaction: The president has doubled down on his position, stating that the U.S. “needs Greenland for the purpose of national security” and asserting that “NATO becomes far more formidable and effective with Greenland in the hands of the UNITED STATES.” He has rejected Greenland’s leadership opposing U.S. control, signaling he would likely oppose the bill’s restrictions.
Mary Peltola Enters Alaska U.S. Senate Race
Sen. Dan Sullivan vs. Mary Peltola – Early polling shows Peltola slightly ahead: 48.0% → 46.4%, with 5.6% undecided. Every vote will count! 🗳️💥
📊 Poll: Alaska Survey Research (Jan. 8–11, 2026) via @IAPolls2022
Former U.S. Representative Mary Peltola has launched a bid for the U.S. Senate, directly challenging incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan. National Democratic leaders view the race as a prime opportunity in the battle for Senate control. Peltola says she will put Alaska first and work to dismantle what she calls a rigged system in Washington.
Early polling shows a tight contest. An Alaska Survey Research poll conducted January 8–11 among registered voters shows Peltola leading Sullivan 48.0 percent to 46.4 percent, with 5.6 percent undecided, signaling an early competitive race.
Anchorage Police Seek Missing Woman Desa Pasold
Anchorage Police are asking for the public’s help locating 63-year-old Desa Pasold, last heard from on December 19, 2025. She is believed to be with her husband, 74-year-old Mark Paddon, and may be traveling in a silver 2004 Toyota RAV4. Anyone with information is urged to contact Anchorage Police Dispatch or Crime Stoppers. Police stress that a missing person case can only be cleared after officers make in-person contact.
Anchorage Death Investigation Underway Downtown
Anchorage Police are investigating the death of an adult male found unresponsive in the 500 block of West 4th Avenue Tuesday evening. A passerby attempted life-saving measures before medics arrived. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Police noted no suspicious circumstances, and next-of-kin notifications are still pending.
Papita the Seal Preparing for Move to New Home
The Alaska SeaLife Center announced that beloved seal Papita will soon embark on an exciting new chapter at the Aquarium of Niagara, where experienced caregivers specialize in working with sight-impaired marine mammals. As staff carefully prepare her for the transition, visitors still have a chance to see Papita and spend time with her through January 16, celebrating her journey and saying their goodbyes. SeaLife Center officials expressed heartfelt thanks to the community for following her story and supporting not only Papita, but the Center’s ongoing mission to care for Alaska’s wildlife and inspire conservation.
