All articles tagged with #mendenhall river
Juneau's temporary levee successfully protected most homes from a record-breaking flood caused by glacial outburst, though some areas experienced seepage and flooding, highlighting the need for long-term solutions amid ongoing concerns about future higher floods.
A glacial dam burst in Juneau, Alaska, causing unprecedented flooding and highlighting the risks of glacial flooding worldwide. Glacial floods, known as jökuhlaups, could threaten approximately 15 million people globally. While climate change is melting glaciers, the unpredictable nature of glacial floods makes them difficult to prepare for. The Mendenhall River, where the flooding occurred, is particularly susceptible to erosion due to loose glacial deposits. More than half of the people at risk from glacial outburst floods are in India, Pakistan, Peru, and China.
A glacial break on the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska has caused major flooding along the Mendenhall River, resulting in the destruction of several structures. The flooding is due to an outburst flood on Suicide Basin, a side basin on the glacier, which occurs when a dam containing a glacial lake breaks. The National Weather Service reports significant erosion along the riverbanks and the closure of roads and bridges in the area. Videos captured by residents show homes collapsing into the river, and the flooding is ongoing. The risk of flooding from melted glaciers is expected to increase as the climate warms.
The Mendenhall River in Alaska has experienced major flooding after a significant release from Suicide Basin in Juneau. Evacuation orders have been issued for specific structures, with at least one already lost to the river. Concerns of potential bank failure and land wasting have prompted residents of Marion Drive to evacuate overnight. The National Weather Service reports that the water level continues to rise, causing significant erosion and collapsing structures.
Juneau's emergency operations center has recommended evacuations for residents living on Marion Drive due to an unprecedented glacial outburst flood caused by a glacial dam outburst flood from Suicide Basin. The flooding has resulted in the loss of one building, with others at risk, as rapid erosion along Marion Drive threatens to collapse the riverbank. Drone footage shows buildings collapsing into the river and others being undercut by the eroding bank. The National Weather Service has reported record flooding in waterways and low-lying areas, with peak flooding expected to crest at 15 feet, surpassing the previous record set in 2011. The city has closed road and foot bridges and is urging people to stay away from the river and avoid unnecessary travel.