For many, the fear still feels fresh. But they’re only just beginning to experience the financial toll.
"jökulhlaup"
Why this year’s record glacial outburst flood likely won’t be Juneau’s worst
Annual glacial outburst floods on Juneau’s Mendenhall River will continue for years to come. But forecasting the severity of those floods is proving to be an unsolvable problem.
A flood warning is in effect for Mendenhall Lake and River as Juneau’s annual jökulhlaup begins
Flood waters are expected to crest sometime on Saturday evening, with a four-to-six foot increase for Mendenhall Lake.
Mother of all jökulhlaups reported in Southeast Alaska
The glacial dam release is believed to have flowed under Lituya Glacier and into Lituya Bay back in August.
Juneau’s Mendenhall Lake and River flood for the 3rd time this summer
This is at least the third time that both the lake and river flooded this summer. Heavy rains drove up lake levels to 10.2 feet on August 10.
National Weather Service issues flood warning for Mendenhall Lake and River
Water is draining under the glacier and will cause the Mendenhall Lake and River to rise over the next 24 hours, cresting Friday evening.
A big Mendenhall jökulhlaup could happen anytime, but scientists say it’s hard to know how big
Water is already spilling over the ice dam, and the lake below the glacier is approaching flood stage from rain water.
Flood warning cancelled after Saturday’s jökulhlaup releases water into Mendenhall lake and river
National Weather Service says Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall River water levels crested at 8.62 feet late Sunday, a little earlier than expected and just below minor flood stage
Jökulhlaup watch: Scientists, Juneau officials waiting for Suicide Basin’s glacial dam release
There’s enough water in Suicide Basin to fill an estimated 10,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools. This year, as in previous years, that water could eventually flow under Mendenhall Glacier and flood Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall River.
Jökulhlaup raises Taku River levels; Suicide Basin release likely in next few weeks
The rising water level will bring more debris and much colder water. “So, if you were to perhaps fall in the river, there would be more risk of hypothermia,” said Nicole Ferrin of the National Weather Service.