NOTN- The city of Juneau has entered a heightened state of readiness after officials confirmed just this morning that Suicide Basin is full, meaning the anticipated Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in the Capitol city could happen at any time.
“We call this the set phase, where people should be prepared to evacuate.” Said Mayor Beth Weldon, “But it could still be days, if any. We’re all getting used to this. It could be within 24 hours, or even as much as five or six days until the basin releases.”
Weldon said the timing of any potential outburst flood remains uncertain. The City is in the “Set” phase of it’s ‘Ready, Set, Go’ framework, which means residents affected by the GLOF should stay vigilant and continue to check in with emergency officials, have a go bag packed and be ready to activate a plan of safety.
According to the National Weather Service, in the past it has taken up to 6 days for the main event to start after the basin is full.
City officials urged residents to closely follow evacuation notices and stay away from flood control structures, particularly the Hesco barriers along vulnerable stretches of riverbank.
“Please do not climb up on the Hesco barriers,” Weldon said. “If they fail, it’s going to be catastrophic, and they could fail in a moment’s notice. You will not have time to run or move.”
if you have any questions, you can call the flood hotline at 907-500-0890 for information and updates.
“Everybody, try and be safe, and please abide by the evacuation notice,” Weldon said. “Again, everybody stay safe.”
