Record flooding struck Alaska's capital city of Juneau on Saturday after a glacial dam outburst, causing widespread destruction and prompting city officials to issue evacuation orders for residents on Marion Drive. The flooding was a result of a major release at the Suicide Basin, which sent a rush of water into Mendenhall Lake and River, leading to significant and historic flooding in the area.

The National Weather Service (NWS) received reports of large trees collapsing into the Mendenhall River as water levels rose, causing erosion along the riverbanks. Videos shared on social media showed trees being swept away by the flooding Mendenhall River. Glacial outburst flooding occurs when trapped water escapes through cracks in thinning ice dams, a phenomenon that has increased worldwide due to climate change.

The water level of Mendenhall Lake reached nearly 15 feet early Sunday morning, surpassing the previous record set in 2016 by 3 feet. This was also 5 feet above the “moderate” flood levels, according to the NWS. Although water levels were receding rapidly on the Mendenhall River, a flood warning remained in effect until 10 a.m. local time.

Experts warn that such extreme weather events are expected to increase due to human-induced climate change. In fact, scientists have linked climate change to recent extreme weather events, including the deadly floods that swept North America, Europe, and China in July. The combination of glacial melt and unusually heavy monsoon rains has caused extensive damage to crops, infrastructure, and claimed the lives of at least 1,700 people.

The flooding in Juneau has resulted in evacuations and the loss of structures. The Mendenhall Lake gage reached a maximum level of 14.97 feet, well above the previous record flood stage of 12 feet set in 2016. Significant flooding has been reported in areas that have not previously experienced such events, and the NWS predicts that the flooding will continue for several hours on Sunday morning. Structures have been lost, and significant erosion has been observed along the Mendenhall River. Several roads have been closed, and residents are urged to stay away from the river.

In addition to the immediate impacts, the flooding has also caused power outages in several areas, including the Mendenhall Campground, View Drive, Meander Way, and Stream Court. Alaska Electric Light and Power have cut off power in these areas until the flooding subsides.

The Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice within the Tongass National Forest, is a popular tourist destination and one of several glaciers that connect to the Juneau Ice Field. The ongoing glacial melt due to climate change has contributed to the increased risk of glacial dam outburst and subsequent flooding.

This is an evolving situation, and authorities are closely monitoring the water levels and the potential for further damage. The NWS continues to provide updates and warnings to ensure the safety of residents and mitigate the impacts of the flooding.