Five to 10 inches of rainfall are predicted for Juneau between Monday evening and Wednesday evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Accordingly, the City and Borough of Juneau warned residents about the potential for mudslides or avalanches as a result of heavy rain and snowmelt.
“These atmospheric conditions, along with the recent freeze-thaw cycle and already saturated conditions, could destabilize the ground and snow, causing mudslides and avalanches,” the city said in a news release. “The City and Borough of Juneau wants the public to be aware of the potential for mudslides and avalanches over the next couple of days.”
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A flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service, and is in effect until late Wednesday. Heavy rains and flooding wiped out roads and damaged vehicles and homes last October. NWS predictions for streams and creeks around Juneau call for substantial increases in water levels across the area.
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for the area with Juneau expected to get between five and ten inches of rain, along with possible mudslides and avalanches, between Monday, Nov. 30, and Wednesday, Dec. 2. (Screenshot / National Weather Service)
Juneau Docks and Harbors also had a warning for boat owners.
“They’re calling for 10 inches,” said harbormaster Matt Creswell in a phone interview. “Boat owners should make sure their bilge pumps are working.”
Creswell said owners should check their vessels regularly while the city is expecting heavy rain to make sure their vessels aren’t in danger of capsizing. A vessel at the Auke Bay Loading Facility flooded on Saturday, but it was righted without incident, Creswell said.
Juneau International Airport also requested that all floatplane pond users check on their aircraft or floats that might be affected by heavy rains.
• Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at (757) 621-1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.
