A series of relentless winter storms has pushed Southeast Alaska into a dangerous situation, prompting emergency evacuations, road closures, and at least one documented structural collapse as communities brace for further hazards.
After weeks of record-breaking snowfall in late December, warm air and heavy rainfall arrived this week, soaking the unusually deep snowpack and causing it to rapidly gain weight. Local authorities warn that the combination has significantly increased the risk of roof failures, avalanches, and localized flooding across the Juneau area and surrounding regions.
Residential Roof Collapses Under Snow Load
One homeowner in Mendenhall Valley experienced a partial roof collapse on Thursday when accumulated snow caused an overhang on a decades-old home to fail. The resident reported hearing crackling noises shortly before the structure gave way.
Structural specialists say those warning signs are common indicators that snow load has surpassed safe thresholds. According to meteorological measurements taken during the December storm cycle, snow weight on flat roofs reached an estimated 41.6 pounds per square foot, exceeding the 40 pounds per square foot design standard for many older Juneau homes.
Experts recommend clearing eaves, overhangs, and flat surfaces to reduce stress, noting that deformation, interior wall cracks, and popping sounds are signals homeowners should take seriously.
Avalanche Advisory and Emergency Shelter
On Friday, city officials – working alongside state transportation and weather agencies – issued an avalanche evacuation advisory for neighborhoods located in established slide paths downtown and along Thane Road. Emergency management staff estimate that hundreds of residents fall within the advisory area and urged those affected to leave immediately rather than wait for worsening conditions.
A temporary shelter opened at Centennial Hall, operated with support from the American Red Cross. It is capable of housing approximately 150 people and currently welcomes both residents and their pets. Officials added that those worried about their roofs – even outside slide zones – may also use the facility for safety.
Multiple Avalanches Reported
Several small avalanches were recorded throughout the morning on Mount Juneau, the Behrends neighborhood, and along Thane Road. Authorities say these smaller releases may temporarily lessen the threat of a major slide by reducing the snow volume still clinging to steep terrain. However, the risk remains elevated due to continued precipitation and rising temperatures.
Thane Road was shut down midday due to ongoing slide activity, and transportation officials warned that the closure could last for an extended period. A reassessment is expected Saturday morning.
Mixed Public Response and Growing Weather Concerns
Residents are responding to the evacuation advisory in different ways. Some living in known slide zones opted to relocate to safety for the first time in decades, calling the measure extreme but necessary. Others chose to remain at home, confident in perceived natural protections or unwilling to leave their property behind.
The National Weather Service forecasts between 1 and 4 inches of rainfall through Saturday, with temperatures expected to rise into the low 40s Fahrenheit. A Flood Watch remains in effect, and meteorologists caution that heavy rain atop a deep snowpack creates exceptionally unstable, wet snow prone to collapsing and sliding.
Wider Impacts and Regional Disruption
Juneau’s public schools were closed Friday due to hazardous conditions, and administrators say potential closures next week may result in temporary remote learning. Beyond the city, nearby communities are reporting similar difficulties, including an avalanche that blocked a highway in Haines Friday morning.
The harsh winter pattern has already caused significant damage across Southeast Alaska, from sinking boats to collapsed commercial roofs and ongoing transportation disruptions. With more moisture expected, emergency officials stress that residents should remain alert and prepared for changing conditions.
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