Preparations intensify in Juneau as Mendenhall Glacier takes an unprecedented path toward flooding
Record Floods Strike Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska, has been hit by record-breaking floods in August 2025, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The city, home to 30,000 residents, has been battling the effects of a glacial outburst flood, with the Mendenhall Glacier's reservoir being the main culprit.
The floodwaters, which started surging around August 12, 2025, reached a peak of 16.65 feet on August 13, 2025. This flood event, based on new record data, has affected vulnerable areas such as View Drive, where 47 homes were inundated with more than 20 inches of water despite last-minute flood defenses [1][2].
Nicole Ferrin, a weather service meteorologist, confirmed the record-breaking nature of this flood event. She stated that the data collected shows this to be a new record [3]. The floodwaters, a result of melted snow and escaping rainwater from the Mendenhall Glacier reservoir, have been flowing towards the state capital of Alaska, posing a significant threat to the high-risk area [1][4].
In response to the impending disaster, authorities had earlier warned locals about preparing for potential disasters. Residents in the risk zones were asked to evacuate and move to higher city spots [1]. The high-risk area, despite being a tourist attraction, is currently in a state of evacuation due to the floods [4].
The city had installed a temporary levee along the Mendenhall River earlier in 2025, which protected many homes from severe flood damage. However, some seeped water and breaches still caused flooding in a few areas, affecting residents’ homes and infrastructure [1][2]. Emergency responses included power cuts due to rising water, shelter provisions for displaced residents, and postponement of the school year start to facilitate recovery [1].
As of mid-August 2025, the floodwaters have begun to recede. However, residents are still cautious about ongoing risks, with some considering federal buyouts to relocate permanently from the most flood-prone zones like View Drive [2]. City officials also note that the HESCO barriers used as flood defenses sustained around $1 million in damage in this event, raising concerns about their durability for future floods [5].
Preparations for future events have included more than 2 miles of flood control barriers installed with the Army Corps of Engineers before the 2025 flood season started [4]. Official updates and safety notices continue to be issued as the area recovers and evaluates flood mitigation measures.
One of the locations affected by the floods is the high-risk area, a popular tourist attraction for easy hiking trails. Despite the devastation, the resilience of the city and its residents shines through, with many coming together to help each other in these trying times.
References:
- Alaska Dispatch News
- CBS News
- National Weather Service
- Army Corps of Engineers
- Juneau Empire
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