Glacial Lake Outburst Triggers Evacuations in Juneau, Alaska

Residents near Juneau are evacuating as a glacial lake outburst threatens to unleash record floodwaters.

Alaska is bracing for potential catastrophic flooding as officials in Juneau contend with rising waters from a glacial lake formed by the Mendenhall Glacier. The National Weather Service has raised alarm bells, warning residents of flooding risks as meltwater begins to breach an ice dam. With water levels reaching 16 feet — surpassing the major flooding threshold of 14 feet — local authorities have urged residents to prepare for possible evacuation. The glacier, approximately 12 miles from Juneau, has become a focal point for tourists and locals alike.

The flood warning follows patterns seen in previous years; Governor Mike Dunleavy declared a state disaster on Sunday amid concerns of a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF). In recent years, the region has experienced significant flooding events, causing damage to homes and infrastructure. Nicole Ferrin, a meteorologist with the NWS, indicated that this could mark a record-breaking event for the area. As climate change impacts continue to reshape weather patterns, Juneau residents remain on high alert, waiting for the full effects of this glacial escape.