Alaska
Final report filed on cause of Wrangell’s deadly landslide
State geologists in early February published their final findings on last year’s Wrangell landslide that killed six people. They found that the Nov. 20 slide was caused by excessive amounts of rain in a short period of time â even for a rainforest.
Wrangellâs Island experienced two large landslides the night of Nov. 20. Two smaller ones happened around the same time, but experts donât know exactly when. One of the big ones took out two homes and damaged several structures along the highway about 11 miles south of town.
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Mort Larson is with the stateâs landslide hazards program with the Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys. Â
He said a team of three geologists gathered data for the report on all the slide sites, as well as other areas of concern on the island.
âWe went back and forth of how we wanted publish this, get this out to the right hands and make sure weâre presenting this data (itâs a factual data piece) correctly to the people,â Larson said.
Lots of rain â possibly four inches within 24 hours â mixed with wind likely caused Wrangellâs landslides. Itâs similar to what caused deadly landslides in Haines and Sitka in recent years.Â
âSlopes get oversaturated and you got more rain systems coming in,â Larson said. âThatâs usually one of the key triggers that really kind of get these things moving and thatâs what weâve seen there in Haines, thatâs what we saw in Sitka.â
Microclimates and landslide complexities
Thereâs a complexity on landslide nomenclature and science. A couple examples of other landslides can be deep seated rotational landslides, where the debris goes into the bedrock and rotates the whole block. Thereâs also translational landslides, which happens when the debris moves along a planar, or flatter surface on a slope, with little rotation.
Those particular slides are known as debris-flow because they were shallow landslides.Â
The National Weather Service in Juneau recorded normal amounts of precipitation before the fatal slide, except for the last six hours. In the 24-hour period preceding the landslide, 2.23 inches of rain were recorded at the Wrangell airport. Just over an inch of that happened in the last six hours before the slide.Â
âItâs hard to really predictâ
Interestingly, during the same 24-hour timeframe, Petersburg, about 30 miles to the northwest, received more than four inches of rain. So why did Petersburg not experience a landslide that night?
It could be because of microclimates, or small pockets of weather, happening within a weather system. That means that there could be different amounts of rain happening in different areas of the same island.Â
âIn Petersburg, the geology is a little bit different,â Larson said. âThe slopes are different, right? The surrounding community in Petersburg, their slopes are a little more gentle. Itâs hard to really predict exactly whatâs going to really kind of trigger those off. Have those slopes in Petersburg not been as saturated as much as the ones theyâre in Wrangell? We donât know.â
Although Petersburg didnât experience a landslide that fateful November night, Prince of Wales Island southwest of Wrangell and Petersburg, had many.
The weather service gathers data, like rainfall, from the same spots throughout the region â often at community airports. But the weather in the nearby mountains could be much different. The rainfall recorded in Wrangell was at the airport, which is on flat ground, ground about 12 miles away from the slide area.
After Wrangellâs slides, the state Department of Transportation installed a rain gauge near the slide site.
Geologists noticed that the gauge measured up to twice the amount of rain that was recorded at the airport. This could mean that more than four inches of rain may have fallen during the 24 hours preceding the landslide events.
Landslide details
The report shows that at least two landslides occurred during the night of Nov. 20. The largest at mile point 11.2, which was approximately 3,750 feet long â from the head scarp to the shoreline. Thatâs close to three quarters of a mile. An additional 500 feet stretched into the Zimovia Strait â about half a cruise ship long. It had a width that began at 100 feet and ended at 350 feet.
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Scientists also found that two smaller landslides occurred just south of Mile 11.2, based on LiDar (Light Detection and Ranging) monitoring.
All of the landslides consisted of minimal rock material, saturated soils and large wood debris. The LiDar monitoring showed that three of them released more material than what they deposited at their ends. This is common for landslides that end up in the water. Only one landslide, the one at Mile 11.2, deposited in the water though.
The report states that the âvolume may have been lost as a thin layer of mud spread across the ground.â There are many gullies that the vegetation could have ended up in as well for one of the slides.
Just one had the same amount of erosion to deposition, which is more common with landslides. Basically, the amount lost at the starting point of a slide and along its route is most likely to end up at the end of the slide.
The Middle Ridge Road landslide, which also occurred on Nov. 20, was close to 150 feet wide (about nine parking spaces) and covered roughly 600 feet of the road. It stretched 3,600 feet long.
Additionally, the geologists found sand and sediment deposits along a channel and powerline above the Nugget Trailer Court at mile point three. A previous landslide deposited rocks and sediment along this area in 2021 or 2022.
The report states that multiple stream channels (potentially from the previous landslide) directed the water flow to the trailer park following the heavy rains on Nov. 20.
âOur climate is changingâ
Plans are in the works for better landslide monitoring for Wrangell. Since the slide, the state has been using remote sensing known as LIDAR to better understand the geography of the island. DGGS and the community is looking for federal funds for a landslide hazard program. Larson said then the local City and Borough, along with the the stateâs Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys, could collaborate on creating two maps â a landslide susceptibility map and a landslide inventory map
âThe great piece about that and where we can jump ahead on that is that we just had recently LiDar collected for the entire island,â he said. âThat is a key piece for doing these maps. You canât do them with that if we didnât have LiDAR, weâd have to go seek funding to get LiDar.â
If approved, they would receive the funds in September and map out parts of the island.
Southeast islands are covered in forested steep mountains. Larson said that heâs seen a pattern with these landslides in the region over the last eight years. He said with the steep slopes and the shallow soil that sits on them, theyâre likely to continue.Â
Deadly Wrangell landslide is part of a pattern in vulnerable Alaska mountainous terrain
âOur climate is changing,â he said. âWeâre getting these big moisture patterns that are coming in these atmospheric river systems that just pummeled Southeast. So theyâre going to continue. These are not going to stop and based on the terrain and the geology that we live here in Southeast, a lot of these communities are up against steep terrain, and ocean and water on the other side.â
He said their goal is to evaluate and understand where landslides occur, collect the data, map it out and give the information to decision makers and communities.
252 landslides on Wrangell Island alone
Wrangellâs interim borough manager, Mason Villarma, said he appreciates the help from the stateâs Department of Natural Resources and its geology team.
âIt took a lot of time to draft the report,â Villarma said. âWeâre really lucky to have the relationship we do with DNR. Itâs just the objective facts and circumstances around the conditions that were present pre and post slide that are most interesting.â
Landslides have been happening throughout Southeast Alaska for thousands of years. Between 1998 and 2010, the U.S. Forest Service mapped landslides within the Tongass National Forest. Researchers found 252 landslides â or debris flows â just on Wrangell Island alone.
Those facts donât make them any less devastating when one happens in your backyard.
Southeast Alaska swimmers remember Wrangell family lost in landslide
WHEREAS, on June 3, 1942, six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, World War II arrived in Alaska when Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island was bombed by Japanese – the first aerial attack by an enemy on the continental United States; and
WHEREAS, the Japanese pilots expected little resistance; but because of an intercepted message three weeks earlier, the installation was on high alert, and Navy and Marine personnel were prepared with anti-aircraft defenses; and
WHEREAS, encountering unexpected resistance at Dutch Harbor, installation, Japanese forces shifted their focus to the Margaret Bay Naval Barracks, where the attack claimed the lives of 25 servicemen; and
WHEREAS, following the initial attack on Dutch Harbor, Japanese forces launched additional assaults on Dutch Harbor, Adak, Kiska, and Attu, resulting in the Aleut people being evacuated and held in internment camps in Southeast Alaska for three years, through which many did not survive; and
WHEREAS, the brave soldiers of the United States Armed Forces and allied Canadian Forces fought valiantly for more than a year to reclaim the remaining Aleutian Islands. The battle of Attu stands as one of the most costly American assaults in the Pacific, with hundreds of servicemen making the ultimate sacrifice to liberate Alaska; and
WHEREAS, on the 84th anniversary of the bombing of Dutch Harbor, we remember and honor all who were affected by the attack, paying tribute both to the military personnel who served and died to defend our Nation and to the Aleut people who died while imprisoned.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim June 3, 2026, as:
Dutch Harbor Remembrance Day
in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to join with the people of Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, and the Aleutian Islands to honor all who were lost in Alaska during World War II, and I order the Alaska State Flag to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of those who perished.
Dated: June 3, 2026
A plane belonging to the Alaska National Guard appears to have been damaged during operations connected to Operation Epic Fury as part of American military efforts against Iran, according to online reports. Defense officials have so far declined to confirm whether Alaska National Guard personnel or equipment are taking part in the campaign.
Last week, defense industry news outlet The War Zone published photos of a KC-135 Stratotanker transiting through a British airbase. In the pictures, made by photographer Andrew McKelvey, the rear bottom of the fuselage and wing stabilizers are “peppered with temporary shrapnel damage repairs‚“ according to The War Zone’s article. The plane also appears to be missing its refueling boom, the proboscis extending from under the tail to pump off fuel to other aircraft.
In the photographs, the Stratotanker’s tail number is visible, identifying the refueling plane as belonging to the Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Wing, based at Eielson Air Force Base outside of Fairbanks. The wing’s mission includes aerial refueling. That’s the tactic of large planes unloading vast quantities of fuel to aircraft, ranging from fighter jets to rescue helicopters, in midair.
Pictures from a different photographer published last week by another blog, The Aviationist, show the same plane. The tail includes the letters “AK” painted above a white polar bear.
In addition to the photographs, the reporting from The War Zone is based on publicly available flight data and social media posts scraped from a variety of sources.
According to information from Flight Radar 24, the Stratotanker left Eielson on March 5, just days after the U.S. and Israeli militaries began bombing Iranian targets on Feb. 28. Through March, according to public flight records, the plane was based at Ben Gurion Airport southeast of Tel Aviv, where, according to The War Zone, dozens of American refueling aircraft were staged as part of Operation Epic Fury.
There are no public flight records connected to the Stratotanker through April and most of May, until it appeared to fly through England on the way to the United States at the end of last month.
It is not clear how many Alaska Air National Guard planes, personnel or units are currently deployed in connection to the war effort against Iran.
A spokesperson for the Alaska National Guard referred all questions about Operation Epic Fury to the U.S. Central Command.
A spokesperson for CENTCOM, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, declined to answer questions on the record or provide any specific information about Alaska National Guard units deployed as part of ongoing military operations, citing the need to protect service members and operational security.
The Alaska National Guard has posted no informational releases or pictures connected to an overseas deployment during the last few months.
Much of Operation Epic Fury has been waged by military aircraft, and aerial refueling is critical to keeping planes supplied during long flights. A May 12 report from the Congressional Research Service composed of public damage reports to U.S. military aircraft noted that among the 42 records of damage or losses were seven KC-135 Stratotankers, though the findings were published before photos emerged of the Alaska-based plane. The report noted that the Defense Department “has not published a comprehensive assessment of combat losses” from Operation Epic Fury.
The tail number is associated with a Stratotanker manufactured in 1964, the year before Boeing ceased making them. All of the nearly 400 KC-135s currently in operation within the American military date back to that era of the Cold War.
The aircraft has the word “Tetlin” painted on the top of its tail. The name is an homage to the Interior Alaska village, one of several selected to honor longstanding bonds between military aviators and Alaska Native communities, according to photographs of a dedication ceremony posted by the Alaska National Guard last summer.
The 168th Wing currently has 12 Stratotankers attached to the unit. That number bumped up in April after a long campaign by Alaska Republican U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan to allocate more tankers to the state’s portfolio given its vast geography and high number of advanced fighter jets.
- Alaska Airlines is opening its newest Lounge at Portland International Airport, featuring thoughtfully designed spaces with twice the square footage and seating of the current space
- The new Lounge reflects the airline’s appreciation for its loyal guests and comes as Alaska continues to expand its service in Portland, offering more flights and more options for guests
- The investment to modernize the Portland Lounge is part of Alaska’s growing portfolio to elevate its global guest experience and expand its Lounge footprint, including new spaces in Seattle, San Diego and Honolulu
PORTLAND, Ore., June 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Alaska Airlines is set to welcome guests to its newest Lounge at Portland International Airport (PDX) when it officially opens on June 4, underscoring its continued investment in premium travel and one of the carrier’s key West Coast hubs.
After more than two years of construction, the approximately 14,000-square-foot Lounge will welcome guests with a warm, thoughtfully designed Pacific Northwest aesthetic, featuring an inviting fireplace and a striking wooden Mt. Hood mural by artist Ben Butler. At twice the size of the current Portland Lounge, it offers more than 230 seats, including Alaska’s Signature Loungers, along with high, open ceilings that bring in natural light and views of PDX’s new terminal. Guests can relax, enjoy fresh, regionally inspired food, sip barista-crafted beverages or cocktails from West Coast partners, or take advantage of ample power plugs and privacy booths for calls and meetings.
“Portland guests have chosen Alaska for years and played an important role in our growth in the Pacific Northwest,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, products and guest experience. “This new Lounge is our way of thanking them and a reflection of our growing portfolio of premium guest experiences. We look forward to opening our doors this week and welcoming guests with the signature hospitality and thoughtful touches Alaska is known for.”
Alaska is the largest carrier serving Portland, operating more flights than any other airline, including more than 100 daily departures. Portland is a critical hub in Alaska and Hawaiian’s network with expanding service to over 60 destinations across North America and beyond. This summer, Alaska will launch year-round service to Everett/Paine Field and Pasco–Tri-Cities, along with seasonal service to Jackson Hole. Last month, new service began to Baltimore, Bellingham, Idaho Falls, Philadelphia and St. Louis. By this fall, Alaska will offer 50% more seats in Portland than just two years ago, reflecting strong demand for travel and the airline’s continued investment in the market.
“Our strong partnership with Alaska has helped to elevate the new PDX as a world-class destination that showcases the Pacific Northwest and makes everyone feel at home,” said Chris Czarnecki, PDX business and properties director. “We’re thrilled their new PDX Lounge is here for the long-haul, offering travelers a stunning spot to relax, recharge, and experience a taste of our region.”
The nearly $18 million investment in the Portland Lounge is part of Alaska’s growing Lounge footprint and broader commitment to enhancing the guest experience as it expands globally. Building on this investment, Alaska just announced its plans to open a landmark, more than 41,000-square-foot Lounge in 2027. The Lounge, which will be located in Seattle – home to the airline’s main hub – will be the largest in its network and among the largest airline lounges in the country. The airline is also designing its first Lounge in San Diego along with a new, expanded Lounge in Honolulu, both slated for early 2028.
Alaska Airlines Lounge members can access eight premium Lounges across the Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines network, including its largest Lounge in Seattle and additional locations at its hubs in Anchorage, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Alaska Lounge+ membership unlocks access to all Alaska Lounges, plus nearly 90 partner Lounges worldwide, including select oneworld and partner Lounges. To learn more or sign up to become an Alaska Lounge member, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Alaska Airlines opening at Portland International Airport?
A: Alaska Airlines is opening a newly redesigned Lounge at Portland International Airport (PDX) on June 4, 2026, offering a larger, more modern space with premium amenities, regional food and beverage options, and enhanced comfort for guests.
How big is the new Alaska Lounge in Portland?
A: The new Lounge is approximately 14,000 square feet—about twice the size of the previous Portland Lounge—and features more than 230 seats.
What amenities are available in the new Alaska Lounge at PDX?
A: Guests can enjoy:
- Barista-crafted coffee and specialty beverages
- West Coast-inspired cocktails
- Fresh, locally inspired food
- Signature Lounge seating and private booths
- Ample power outlets and workspaces
- Relaxation areas with premium finishes
Who can access Alaska Airlines Lounges?
A: Access is available to:
- Alaska Lounge members
- Alaska Lounge+ members
- Eligible First Class guests
- Eligible oneworld and partner airline passengers
What is the difference between Alaska Lounge and Lounge+ membership?
A: Alaska Lounge+ membership includes access to all Alaska Lounges plus nearly 90 partner Lounges worldwide, while standard Alaska Lounge membership provides access to all eight Alaska-operated Lounges.
Why is Portland important to Alaska Airlines?
A: Portland is one of Alaska Airlines’ key West Coast hubs, with more than 100 daily departures and nonstop service to over 60 destinations across North America. By this fall, Alaska will offer 50% more seats in Portland than just two years ago, reflecting strong demand for travel and the airline’s continued investment in the market.
How is Alaska Airlines expanding its Lounge network?
A: Alaska Airlines is investing in multiple new and expanded Lounges, including:
- A 41,000+ square feet landmark Lounge in Seattle opening in 2027
- A new Lounge in San Diego
- An expanded Lounge in Honolulu
How much did Alaska Airlines invest in the new Portland Lounge?
A: Alaska Airlines invested nearly $18 million in the new Portland Lounge as part of its broader investment in premium travel as the airline continues to grow globally.
About Alaska, Hawaiian and Horizon
Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group, and McGee Air Services is a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. We are a global airline with hubs in Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, Anchorage, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. We deliver remarkable care as we fly our guests to more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Latin America, Asia, the Pacific and Europe. Guests can book travel at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Alaska and Hawaiian are members of the oneworld alliance. Members of our Atmos Rewards loyalty program can earn and redeem points with oneworld airlines and our additional global partners that serve over 1,000 worldwide destinations. Learn more about what’s happening at Alaska and Hawaiian at news.alaskaair.com. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.”
SOURCE Alaska Airlines
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