Rick Thoman~Atmospheric River~South Central Alaska

Rick Thoman~Atmospheric River~South Central Alaska

Author: Katie Writer August 29, 2025 Duration: 23:15

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Today's episode includes an interview with climate specialist, Rick Thoman. Rick discusses the conditions that lead to an atmospheric river, La Nina winter predictions and also the importance of weather forecasts and radio coverage for Alaskans. 

Rick Thoman, a climate specialist at IARC’s Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy (ACCAP).  Rick is a contributor and editor of the Arctic Report Card and was also awarded NOAA Distinguished Career Award for Professional Achievement in 2020. Rick was honored after a 30 plus year career with the National Weather Service for continued efforts to improve climate services in Alaska and for outstanding outreach efforts working with the Alaska Native community. We are happy that he has not yet retired, as his wealth of information is an invaluable resource for communities all around Alaska. Thank you, Rick!

Rick Thoman has a very informative newsletter on Substack called: Alaska and Arctic Climate Newsletter. You can see illustrations, graphs and be informed of all things Alaska weather.

Talkeetna River at Alaska Railroad Bridge NOAA link: 

 https://water.noaa.gov/gauges/TKTA2

Thank you for tuning into the Alaska Climate & Aviation Podcast!

Also, I'm happy to announce my scenic flight seeing business, Visionary Adventures, LLC.  "Cub Rides with Katie" offers scenic flights in a Piper Super Cub Airplane here in South Central Alaska.  Message me if you wish to book a flight. 

Katie Writer

ktphotowork@gmail.com

907/873-7669


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You can visit my website for links to other episodes and see aerial photography of South Central Alaska at:
https://www.katiewritergallery.com


There’s a unique perspective gained from the cockpit of a small plane, especially in a place as vast and vulnerable as Alaska. Host Katie Writer pilots these conversations in the Alaska Climate and Aviation Podcast, weaving together two seemingly distinct worlds into a coherent and compelling narrative. From her vantage point in a Super Cub, Katie has witnessed the tangible effects of a warming climate-melting permafrost, shifting wildlife patterns, receding glaciers-and it prompted her to start recording talks with the scientists, pilots, homesteaders, and community members who are navigating these changes daily. This isn't just a technical discussion; it's a collection of human stories about adaptation and resilience. You’ll hear how aviation is crucial for access and research in remote regions, and how families are adjusting their lives and livelihoods. Designed to be accessible for curious minds of all ages, the podcast transforms complex science into relatable adventures, proving that learning and cultivating a sense of wonder are key to facing the future. Each episode connects the dots between the natural world, family life, and the science of flight, offering a thoughtful and surprisingly hopeful audio journey over the Alaskan landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 53

Alaska Climate and Aviation Podcast
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