A glacier outburst in Alaska is causing significant concern as it sends a surge of water downstream toward Juneau. The Mendenhall River, which flows through the state capital, was at a “major flood” stage on Wednesday (August 13), with more water expected from an overflowing glacial lake.
The process leading to these floods involves glaciers retreating uphill, leaving a basin where meltwater accumulates to form a lake. The lake’s sides, often made of loose dirt, rock, or ice, can collapse if disturbed, causing the water to cascade down the valley.
The city of Juneau, home to over 30,000 people, is facing threats to homes and roads. Residents have been urged to evacuate due to the rising water levels, which could break records between 8 a.m. and noon local time.
Flooding from glacial lakes has been a recurring issue in Juneau since 2011, but recent years have seen record-setting surges. Rising temperatures have accelerated glacier melting in the area, contributing to the problem. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Alaska has warmed faster than the global average, and more rapidly than any other state.
Last August, flooding from the glacial lake inundated several hundred homes with four to six feet of water, though no deaths or injuries were reported. In response, the city constructed a temporary levee along the river.
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