summary alaska

Climate Change Impact on Napakiak

• Location: Alaskan village of Napakiak

• Erosion: Shoreline erosion is occurring at alarming rates.

• Relocation: Village has moved twice before, including relocating their ancestors who are now buried in mass graves.

Community Response

• Metal Coffins: Residents are now using metal coffins for burials, anticipating future relocations.

• Documentation: Walter Nelson tracks land lost to water, reporting about 200 feet of land loss since February 2014, with acceleration noted in recent years.

Broader Context

• Effect on Indigenous Communities: Napakiak's challenges are reflective of the struggles faced by many of Alaska's 200 indigenous communities experiencing flooding and erosion.

• Quinhagak: Another village that relocated last in 1979 is also affected.

Environmental Changes

• Warming Trend: Alaska is warming twice as fast as the global average; February and March temperatures have broken records.

• Permafrost Melting: Increased temperatures are causing permafrost to melt, leading to sinking houses.

Resident Experiences

• Personal Stories: Residents recall changes in snowfall and how it used to be higher, affecting their homes.

Future Outlook

• Preparedness: Villagers use spring to prepare for upcoming seasons by implementing measures to slow down erosion.

• Concerns: Despite efforts, villagers fear they may be fighting a losing battle against the speed of erosion and potential flooding that could submerge the village.