Suicide Basin release underway – avoid Mendenhall River

Suicide Basin is currently releasing water into Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall River. At this time, it is too early to know the scale of the outburst. Please avoid the Mendenhall River for the safety of yourself and others until further notice.

Residents in the vicinity of the river, especially those to the west of Riverside Drive, are strongly encouraged to make an evacuation plan and prepare a go-bag in case of emergency.

CBJ and local weather agencies will monitor river conditions closely over the coming hours. If the river appears to be approaching flood levels, CBJ will work with CCFR and JPD to alert residents in the area and issue evacuation warnings if necessary. CBJ is prepared to open sheltering services in the event of a major flood.

Additional updates will be provided when more information is available.

For information about how to stay safe during a flood, visit juneau.org/emergency/juneau-hazards and click the “Floods” tab.

For more information about glacial outbursts, visit CBJ’s jökulhlaup FAQ. For the latest advisories from CBJ, visit juneau.org/newsroom or follow CBJ on Facebook.

More river data is available via the National Weather Service’s Mendenhall River gauge.

Questions and non-emergency reports can be sent to [email protected]. Please limit calls to 911 to emergency reports only.