US EditionTemporary barriers spared Alaska's capital from severe flooding. A long-term solution is elusive
Temporary barriers protected over 460 properties from a record 16.65-foot flood crest this year, but a permanent solution remains uncertain amid climate change challenges.
- When the peak hit early Wednesday morning, temporary flood barriers along the Mendenhall River held back a glacial outburst flood, preventing residential flooding.
- Scientists say the glacial outburst floods from the Mendenhall Glacier have worsened, with increasing water levels observed over time, according to the source.
- The 10,000 Hesco barriers installed by partner agencies this year protect more than 460 properties along 2.5 miles of riverbank.
- On Wednesday afternoon, Juneau officials reported there were no overnight rescues or emergency evacuations during the flooding.
- Looking ahead, scientists say devising a permanent solution is complicated by uncertainties about warming's impact on ice-dam outbursts.
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29 Articles
Melting Glacier in Alaska Floods State Capital
Glacier Gush Parts of Alaska's state capital, Juneau, were flooded this week, caused by a nearby melting glacier, according to The Guardian. And, yes, in case you're wondering, climate change appears to be the main culprit behind the record-breaking water levels. The Mendenhall Glacier, a vast field of ice and snow that sits north of the city in a valley, has created a natural lake that is dammed by ice, according to the news outlet. On Tuesday…
Temporary barriers spared Alaska's capital from severe flooding. A long-term solution is elusive
The glacial flooding that sent residents of Alaska’s capital city scrambling this week has become an annual ordeal for those who live along the picturesque river that winds from the nearby Mendenhall Glacier.
Glacial flooding measured in real time at Juneau, Alaska
USGS streamgages show flood conditions are now underway, with live cameras providing real-time views on the USGS HIVIS website. Glacier-caused flooding has become an annual threat since 2011, with record-breaking floods over the past two years that impacted more than 300 homes and threatened public safety.
Juneau Flood Risks Rising as Glacier Lakes Grow
Key Takeaways – Meltwater from the Mendenhall Glacier fills Suicide Basin each summer – In August 2025, record water levels forced evacuation orders in Juneau – Climate warming causes glacier retreat and creates dangerous mountain lakes – Sudden lake bursts can flood towns at speeds up to 60 miles per hour – Early alerts and lake drainage projects help protect downstream communities Summer Floods in Juneau Each summer the Mendenhall Glacier abov…
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