Alaska’s Meltdown: Glacier Triggered Historic Floods in Capital

The capital city of Alaska is experiencing a historic flooding event after a glacier melted, gushing water into the city.

Devastating Floods Rock Juneau

In an alarming climate-change-related disaster, residents of Juneau, Alaska sought shelter when the Mendenhall glacier melted this week. The event caused significant property damage, but no injuries or deaths have been reported.

Rapid Emergency Response

Officials sprung into action, opening a local shelter for residents and responding to emergency calls related to the flood. Over a hundred homes in the area were damaged by the sudden flood.

City Issues Warning and Explanation 

In an online release explaining the situation, and warning residents of what was to come, the city of Juneau compared the swell to “water overflowing out of a full bathtub.”

“Water…Has to Go Somewhere”

“Water flowing over the dam created by the glacier has to go somewhere – in this case, Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall River,” the explanation read.

A Dark Anniversary 

Almost exactly one year ago, floods caused significant damage to homes as a result of a similar glacial outburst. But Juneau’s deputy City Manager, Robert Barr, said things weren’t as bad last year as they are now.

“A Lot More Water”

Speaking to the Associated Press, Barr said the flooding this year led to “a lot more water in the valley, on the streets, in people’s homes,” compared to the 2023 event.

Flooding Worsens Every Year 

The region has experienced periodic flooding for over a decade as global temperatures have soared, causing glaciers to melt. But Alaskan officials say this year’s flood is the worst it’s ever been.

Global Warming Hits the Arctic Harder

Climate experts say that Alaska, along with the rest of the Arctic, is experiencing the effects of global warming at a rate twice that of the rest of the world. 

Fossil Fuels to Blame

Thanks to pollution caused by fossil fuels, Alaska is seeing higher temperatures and rapidly melting glaciers.

Locals Describe Devastation

Locals said the flooding caused vehicles to float and created waist-deep areas of standing water in some neighborhoods. The waters of the Mendenhall River reached nearly sixteen feet, creating a stunning record.

Governor Praises First Responders 

Alaska’s governor, Mike Dunleavy, said he was pleased with the response efforts of emergency workers. Dunleavy posted a series of photos showing the damage done by the floods as he visited victims.

“The Damage is Significant”

“Today I surveyed the aftermath of the Juneau glacier flood,” Dunleavy wrote. “The damage is significant and affecting hundreds of Alaskans. I’m grateful that there were no deaths or severe injuries reported.”

Resources for Victims

Dunleavy also directed victims to the official website for Alaska’s disaster assistance, where those affected by the floods can apply for help rebuilding and recovering.

14 Billion Gallons of Water Released

Scientists say that over 14 billion gallons of water were released from the basin. Since last year, the amount of water has grown exponentially compared to when these glacial outbursts began in 2011.

Research for Prevention and Forecasting Underway

Experts are working to find ways to predict flood events like these, using technology and historic data to forecast future floods. But climate change has a constant effect on glacial systems, making it hard to estimate changes from year to year.

State of Emergency Declared

Governor Dunleavy declared a state of emergency following the devastating flooding, saying that he wanted to ensure the resources needed for recovery were available right away. 

State Funds to Assist Cleanup

“[The declaration] allows us, over the next 30 days, to do whatever we can in terms of regulation, and suspension to help expedite clean up,” Dunleavy said. “It also frees up money from the state’s coffers to help out.”

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Maridav.

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