The Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska, caused severe flooding after meltwater burst through, affecting more than 100 homes.
Glacial outburst floods have become a recurring problem, with this year’s flood being the largest recorded, surpassing previous records.
Efforts to mitigate flooding, such as barriers and tunnels, have been discussed but remain unimplemented due to complexity and cost.
Key quote:
"There was a tremendous amount of water that came out at one time."
— Aaron Jacobs, senior service hydrologist with the National Weather Service
Why this matters:
As glaciers continue to melt, extreme weather events like the floods in Juneau may become more frequent, posing significant risks to communities. Understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change on glacial melt is crucial to developing effective solutions and protecting vulnerable areas.
Scientists, emergency managers and Juneau residents are bracing for an event at the Mendenhall Glacier that could flood a nearby lake and river again. The now-yearly phenomenon is caused by climate change.
For everyone from traditional hunters to the military, the National Park Service to the oil industry, climate change is the new reality in Alaska. Government, residents and businesses are all trying to adapt.
