What is the location of the flooding?

On August 7, 2024 glacial flooding inundated Juneau, Alaska along the Mendenhall River in the Mendenhall Valley (1)(2).

The Juneau Glacier Flood was caused by a glacial lake outburst from the Suicide Basin near the Mendenhall Glacier (3). The glacial meltwater spread through several neighborhoods in Juneau, flooding areas that had not previously been considered at risk.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding impacted Juneau, Alaska, particularly the Mendenhall Valley, where over 100 homes were damaged. Some areas farther from the river, which had not been expected to flood, were also affected.

This flood's reach is greater than previous glacial melt flooding, indicating a growing risk to the community.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

The floodwaters have receded, and the Mendenhall River has dropped back below flood stage, indicating that the immediate threat has passed. Cleanup operations are underway, with residents working to dry out homes and recover belongings.

The National Weather Service confirmed that water levels have returned to what is typical for this time of year, and the community is now focusing on recovery and assessing the damage.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are currently no active evacuation orders or alerts, as the floodwaters have receded. Governor Mike Dunleavy declared the flood a disaster on August 8 (4). There have been no injuries or deaths as of August 8.

During the peak of the flooding, residents in affected areas were advised to evacuate, and emergency shelters were opened, accommodating about 40 people overnight. While the immediate danger has subsided, the city remains cautious, as future flooding events could occur due to the ongoing glacial changes. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about potential risks.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.