River in northern Alaska turns orange due to rising heavy metal pollution December 18, 2025 at 11:30PM

Arctic rivers in northern Alaska are dramatically changing colour due to melting permafrost releasing hidden metals like iron. This thawing process exposes mineral-rich soils, leading to increased metal levels and acidity in waterways. Scientists are concerned about the impact on aquatic life and Indigenous communities relying on these rivers, highlighting a significant climate-driven transformation of polar landscapes.