07 Aug 2023 | 08:17 AM UTC
US: Flooding ongoing across Juneau, Alaska, as of early Aug. 7
Flooding ongoing across Juneau, Alaska, US, as of early Aug. 7. Authorities declare state of emergency.
Event
Flooding is ongoing across Juneau, Alaska, as of early Aug. 7 due to a glacial lake outburst on Aug. 5. Authorities declared a state of emergency on Aug. 6. Dozens of homes along the Mendenhall River have been flooded, with at least two homes swept away and several other homes and buildings sustaining significant damage. Authorities have evacuated at risk and impacted residents. Several roads in the region are closed. Alaska Electric Light and Power Company cut off power to several areas as a precaution; most power has since been restored.
Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where flooding impacts utility networks.
The flooding may contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region as well as block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
