Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, was hit by record flooding on Saturday following a glacial dam outburst, resulting in widespread destruction and the evacuation of residents on Marion Drive. The flooding was triggered by a significant release at the Suicide Basin, which caused a surge of water into Mendenhall Lake and River, leading to unprecedented and severe flooding in the area.

Reports from the National Weather Service (NWS) revealed that as water levels rose, large trees collapsed into the Mendenhall River, causing erosion along the riverbanks. Videos shared on social media captured the alarming sight of trees being swept away by the powerful flooding Mendenhall River.

Glacial outburst flooding occurs when trapped water escapes through cracks in thinning ice dams, a phenomenon that has been increasingly witnessed 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 elevation 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 have issued warnings about the intensification of extreme weather events due to human-induced climate change. In fact, scientists have linked climate change to recent devastating floods that have ravaged North America, Europe, and China in July. The combination of glacial melt and unusually heavy monsoon rains has led to extensive damage to crops, infrastructure, and the tragic loss of at least 1,700 lives.

In Juneau, the flooding has resulted in the evacuation of residents and the destruction of structures. The water level in Mendenhall Lake reached a maximum of 14.97 feet, surpassing 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. Authorities have urged residents to stay away from the river and have closed several roads as a precautionary measure.

Apart from the immediate impacts, the flooding has also caused power outages in multiple areas, including the Mendenhall Campground, View Drive, Meander Way, and Stream Court. Alaska Electric Light and Power have temporarily cut off power in these affected areas until the floodwaters recede.

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

Authorities are closely monitoring the water levels and the potential for further damage as this remains an evolving situation. The NWS continues to provide updates and warnings to ensure the safety of residents and mitigate the impacts of the flooding.