Another problem facing Alaska is its thawing permafrost. Much of the land in Alaska used to be permanently frozen or frozen for most of the year Now the thawing permafrost is causing a number of problems for people living in Alaska Roads and utility poles are collapsing as the ground around and under them warms and softens Also the hard permafrost that originally prevented beaches from eroding during violent storms is now melting. People who live along Alaska's coasts are being forced to relocate For villages on small low island one terrible stroms could wipe out the entire community.