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Flood updates Wednesday: Peak of 16.1-16.6 feet Thursday morning still forecast, evacuation advised by 3 p.m.
Juneau Independent • • nation
Key Points:
- The Mendenhall River is forecasted to reach a major flood stage between 16.1 and 16.6 feet between 5 and 9 a.m. Thursday, with major flooding expected after midnight Thursday lasting about eight hours.
- Residents in flood zones are urged to evacuate by 3 p.m. Wednesday due to the risk of rapid flooding and potential HESCO barrier breaches, which would trigger flash flood warnings and emergency alerts.
- Emergency services have opened a shelter at Floyd Dryden Gymnasium, with capacity for 75 people and accommodations for pets, and public transit will continue to serve evacuation areas until 5 p.m. Wednesday.
- Infrastructure repairs and monitoring of flood barriers are ongoing, with drone inspections planned once the lake stage reaches 14 feet; several bridges and recreation areas will close Wednesday evening.
- Officials emphasize the danger of floodwaters, advising residents not to walk or drive through flooded areas, and warn that flooding could occur quickly, leaving only minutes to respond in case of barrier failure.
