Nat Herz

Mount Spurr in Alaska is likely to erupt soon. So people are buying goggles and masks to protect themselves from ash — and also pet versions to protect their dogs.

Mount Spurr in Alaska is likely to erupt soon. So people are buying goggles and masks to protect themselves from ash — and also pet versions to protect their dogs.

In Norway, where skiing is the top sport, huge crowds turned out there for the world championships of cross country skiing that wrapped up this weekend.

Fans camp out in the snow weeks early for the Cross-Country World Ski Championships in Norway.

Jessie Diggins became the first-ever U.S. skier to win an individual world title Tuesday in Slovenia. She's already the most decorated American cross-country skier ever — even before this latest win.

In Alaska, the coronavirus vaccine is heading to tiny villages on small planes and snow machines. The massive undertaking echoes previous efforts to get vaccines to remote corners of the state.

After a three-year push by the Trump administration, almost no oil companies offered bids. Analysts point to controversy, low oil prices and an incoming administration that opposes drilling.

In an internal memo this week, the National Marine Fisheries Service bars references to the coronavirus pandemic without preapproval. It suggests alternatives such as "in these extraordinary times."

Most of the crew on one massive seafood trawler has tested positive for COVID-19. Other vessels also have cases, despite sweeping measures to try and prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Normally Alaskans endure a crush of summer tourists and restricted access to some sites. But in this season of staycations they'll have the run of the place, and are being courted with special deals.