There’s an atmospheric river heading toward Southeast Alaska late Thursday night, forecast to bring heavy rain to Juneau. Street crews began working to clear storm drains as rain arrived Tuesday, but the city has encouraged residents to clear neighborhood drains to prevent roads from becoming ponds.
The National Weather Service Juneau measured between one-quarter and one-half inch of rain in different parts of the city between midnight and Tuesday afternoon.
While snowpiles are shrinking, rain falling on snow and ice has made streets slick and wet. In a statement released Tuesday, the City and Borough of Juneau urged residents to stay off the roads as much as possible so crews can prepare for the incoming storm.
Officials are concerned that blocked drains could worsen ponding on roadways, especially as rainfall is set to increase later in the week. Residents are encouraged to help by clearing nearby storm drains to reduce the risk of minor flooding in their neighborhoods.
CBJ provided an online map showing where residents can locate nearby storm drains.
NWS warned that rain-on-snow conditions will also make existing snowpacks increasingly dense, icy, and difficult to remove.
“Preparations should begin for an expected rain on snow event going into the weekend,” the agency said in its Tuesday afternoon hydrologic outlook.
Off-and-on snow and rain showers are expected to continue through midweek before heavy rain is forecast to arrive late Thursday night.
CBJ said residents can report slick intersections or other dangerous road conditions to the Juneau Police Department’s non-emergency line at (907) 586-0600.
