Juneau, Alaska (KINY) – As of 11 am this morning, Aug 1, 2024, there are no indications that the main release of water from the basin has started. On Wednesday evening, the water level in Suicide Basin reached the top of the Mendenhall Glacier ice dam, as indicated by the relatively steady water level in the basin. The basin is now at capacity, with water slowly eroding the overflow channel, leading to a slow decrease in the water level in the basin.
There has not been a rise in water level on the Mendenhall due to the overflowing water, but with the basin full, a Special Weather Statement was issued this morning emphasizing that now is the time to prepare for flood impacts along the Mendenhall Lake and River. For reference, in 2023, it took six days from when the basin was full to begin draining sub-glacially or when the main release of water started.
The National Weather Service and our partners are monitoring the situation closely. As soon as evidence of sub-glacial drainage is detected, a Flood Warning will be issued. Please check back often for updates on this evolving event.
Images from the entire 2024 season can be viewed here.
