Alaska Rivers Face Above-Average Flood Risks

0:00Anchorage story is making news on March 16th, a new report from the Alaska Pacific River Forecast Center warns of above-average risks for river break-up flooding across much of the state this year. Released on March 13th, it highlights dangers in the interior, large parts of the Yukon River, the Tanana River, and the lower Kuskokwin River. Several factors are driving these higher risks, including snowpack up to 1.5 times above-average and key basins like the upper Yukon, Tanana, and Yukon. Kuskokwin Delta. Rivers also froze with high water levels, thick ice from the coldest winter in 30-50 years, and rough ice jams in the interior. Communities along these rivers could face serious impacts, as break-ups often lead to ice jams and sudden floods. For example, the average break-up date on the lower Kuskokwin at Bethel is May 9th, while Yukon Rivermouth areas typically see it around May 20th. Fasters know it's still too early for firm predictions, with near-normal temperatures

1:01through May possibly sparking dynamic break-ups on the Yukon. Warmer than expected weather, though, could ease risks on the lower Yukon and Kuskokwin. Meanwhile, the Koyukuk Basin in South Central Alaska faced below-average threats due to lighter snowpack. The center will issue its next spring break-up update on April 10th, so residents should stay tuned for changes as the season unfolds. Appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. Relax deeper, reset faster, come for Yukon here, S-O-L-L-I-SOLYPILLOW.COM