Juneau Floodwaters Recede After Record Crest Near 20 Feet

Glacier Outburst Flood in Juneau

• 🏔️ A glacier 12 miles from Juneau released a significant outburst flood, causing massive flooding in the populated area.
• 🌊 The Mendenhall Glacier Lake waters peaked at approximately 16.6 feet around noon Eastern time.
• 📉 Floodwaters have now begun to slowly recede, according to the National Weather Service.

Impact on Populated Areas

• 🏘️ The affected area, located about 12 miles north of Juneau, is home to nearly 30,000 residents.
• ⚠️ Key infrastructure including schools, shops, a senior living facility, and an airport are situated in this populated zone.
• 🚨 Evacuation advisories were in place in the days leading up to the event, and remained active as crews assessed damage.

Flood Mitigation Efforts

• 🚧 In recent years, flooding has become a major concern, leading to the installation of temporary Hesco barriers.
• 🤝 The US Army Corps of Engineers partnered with officials to build and monitor these barriers, which are largely holding.
• 💧 Minor seepage was observed in some Hesco barrier locations, with assessments being conducted via drones and soon in person.

Ongoing Advisories

• ⚠️ Authorities are advising residents not to walk or drive through standing water.
• ⚡ Power restoration across the affected area may take some time.