An Alaska Airlines 737 was struck by lightning on its approach to Sitka yesterday evening. All passengers disembarked in Sitka and the plane went on to Juneauwith only the flight crew. The plane sustained minor damage and was returned to service. The coastal areas of Southeast Alaska have experienced occasional thunderstorms for the last week. The National Weather Service in Juneau says the phenomenon, sometimes called “thundersnow,” occurs when cold air moves in over the relatively warm ocean.Robert Woolsey, KCAW - SitkaDownload Audio (MP3)