Tag Archives: flooding

Glacial Melt in Juneau, Alaska Triggers Flooding, Evacuations, and Resident Alarm

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Glacial explosions, which occur when natural ice and sediment dams collapse, sending floods downstream, have emerged as an issue in Europe, Central Asia, and South America.

According to a report in Global, glacial explosion floods have claimed over 12,000 lives worldwide. The majority of these fatalities were concentrated in two events: the Huaraz flood in Peru in 1941 and the 2013 Kedarnath flood in India.

A 2023 survey published in Nature Communications revealed that approximately 90 million people across 30 countries reside in areas with glacial lakes, with around 15 million potentially affected by glacial explosions, particularly in India, China, and Pakistan.

Research conducted in 2023 identified over 120 glacial lakes in Alaska, with 106 having drained since 1985, many situated in remote locations, according to recent findings.

To address this year’s risks, Juneau has installed extensive barriers along the river to prevent widespread flooding in vulnerable areas. The funding for these barriers was partially sourced from Juneau residents living in flood-prone zones.

“We are still evaluating the barriers, but we believe they have significantly reduced property damage compared to the 2024 incident,” stated Nahak McFadden, spokesperson for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

How Do Glacial Explosions Occur?

Glaciers, often referred to as slow-moving rivers of ice, descend the mountains’ slopes. During colder seasons, these ice masses accumulate as snow compresses into ice. In the summer, meltwater either escapes or the glaciers destabilize, leading to ice loss.

Initially, water flowing from the glacier enters rivers and eventually reaches the ocean.

Sometimes, the flow of meltwater is obstructed by glacial ice plugs, causing water to pool and form tunnels beneath the glacier, destabilizing these ice plugs.

“If sufficient water builds behind an ice plug, it can float the ice and move beneath it. The warm water initiates a cycle of positive feedback, thermally eroding the ice,” a researcher noted.

“Once triggered, they can unleash catastrophic flooding that surpasses even the most significant floods caused by rainfall or thaw,” he added.

Glacial explosions typically occur in Alaska during August when the meltwater reaches its peak, though they can happen at any time.

After drainage, glaciers may slowly move downhill, causing ice to crumble and restart the buildup cycle. Capps indicated a pattern where one explosion occurs annually.

Alaska is home to numerous lakes surrounded by glaciers capable of causing explosive floods. However, most of these locations are remote, minimizing risks to communities and infrastructure.

“In such a critical area like Suicide Basin upstream of Juneau, challenges arise primarily due to the infrastructure located downstream,” he pointed out.

Explosions can also occur if water overflows natural dams, known as moraines, composed of rocks and debris.

“Most often, but not exclusively, failures occur in moraine-formed lakes, leading to sediment being washed away,” Capps explained.

What Role Does Climate Change Play?

Globally, glaciers are retreating. While some glaciers may grow during seasons of heavy snowfall and cooler temperatures, many diminish under the sun or during periods of low snowfall. Overall, there’s a longstanding decline in global glacial mass.

The World Glacier Monitoring Service tracks data from 60 “reference” glaciers, each with mass balance assessments spanning over 30 years.

“The declines are significant and consistent globally,” mentioned Pelt, who monitors glacial mass changes in Washington’s North Cascade range. “2023 marked the first year where all 60 glaciers recorded a loss in mass balance concurrently, a trend that continued into 2024.”

Research indicates that glaciers have been thinning since 1985, as they retain less water behind progressively shorter and thinner ice barriers. The occurrence of these explosive events has remained relatively stable over time.

As glaciers recede, some flood-prone areas may cease to function.

“I believe the danger will lessen for residents in Alaska,” Pelt stated. “The glaciers are thinning and retracting, reducing the likelihood of robust ice dams forming.”

However, researchers are wary that glacial dams at higher altitudes and in colder regions might become unstable as global temperatures rise, potentially leading to newly formed lakes and explosion-prone areas.

In Juneau, the barriers successfully held after implementation following last year’s disaster. The Startz family had a minor pond in their yard along with a thin layer of glacial silt on their grass.

Homeowners in flood-risk zones contribute over $600 annually for protective measures.

“If these barriers prove effective, then I’m more than willing to pay that extra fee,” remarked Stars on Tuesday. “We can’t repair a glacier.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Concerns Grow for FEMA’s Future Following Texas Flooding

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The catastrophic flood in Texas, claiming nearly 120 lives, marked the first major crisis encountered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the current Trump administration. Despite the tragic loss of life, both former and current FEMA officials have expressed to NBC News that the effects on smaller geographic regions don’t adequately challenge the capabilities of the agency, especially as staffing has been reduced significantly.

They argue that the true tests may arise later this summer, when the threat of hurricanes looms over several states.

As discussions about the agency’s future unfold—with President Donald Trump hinting at the possibility of “dismantling it”—Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem, who oversees FEMA, has tightened her control.

Current and former officials have mentioned that Noem now mandates that all agents personally authorize expenditures exceeding $100,000. To expedite the approval process, FEMA established a task force on Monday aimed at streamlining Noem’s approval, according to sources familiar with the initiative.

While Noem has taken a more direct approach to managing the agency, many FEMA leadership positions remain unfilled due to voluntary departures. In May, the agency disclosed in an internal email that 16 senior officials had left, collectively bringing over 200 years of disaster response experience with them.

“DHS and its components are fully engaged in addressing recovery efforts in Carville,” a spokesperson from DHS remarked in a statement to NBC News.

“Under Chief Noem and Deputy Manager David Richardson, FEMA has transformed from an unwieldy DC-centric organization into a streamlined disaster response force that empowers local entities to assist their residents. Outdated processes have been replaced due to their failure to serve Americans effectively in real emergencies… Secretary Noem ensures accountability to U.S. taxpayers, a concern often overlooked by Washington for decades.”

Civilians assist with recovery efforts near the Guadalupe River on Sunday.Giulio Cortez / AP

On Wednesday afternoon, the FEMA Review Council convened for its second meeting, set up to outline the agency’s future direction. “Our goal is to pivot FEMA’s responsibilities to the state level,” Trump told the press in early June.

At this moment, FEMA continues to manage over 700 active disaster situations, as stated by Chris Currie, who monitors governmental accountability.

“They’re operating no differently. They’re merely doing more with fewer personnel,” he noted in an interview.

While some advocates push for a more proactive role for the agency, certain Republicans in Congress emphasize the need to preserve FEMA in response to the significant flooding.

“FEMA plays a crucial role,” said Senator Ted Cruz of Texas during a Capitol Hill briefing this week. “There’s a consensus on enhancing FEMA’s efficiency and responsiveness to disasters. These reforms can be advantageous, but the agency’s core functions remain vital, regardless of any structural adjustments.”

Bureaucratic Hurdles

A key discussion point in the first FEMA Review Council meeting was how the federal government can alleviate financial constraints. However, current and former FEMA officials argue that Noem’s insistence on personal approvals for expenditures introduces bureaucratic layers that could hinder timely assistance during the Texas crisis and potential future hurricanes.

Current officials voiced that the new requirements contradict the aim of reducing expenses. “They’re adding bureaucracy…and increasing costs,” one official commented.

A former senior FEMA official remarked that agents need to procure supplies and services within disaster zones, routinely requiring their authorization for contracts over $100,000 to facilitate these actions.

“FEMA rarely makes expenditures below that threshold,” disclosed an unnamed former employee currently involved in the industry to NBC News.

In addition to the stipulation that Noem must approve certain expenditures, current and former staff members revealed confusion regarding who holds authority—Noem or Richardson, who has been acting as administrator since early May. One former official noted a cultural shift within the agency from proactive measures to a more cautious stance, as employees fear job loss.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin referred to questions regarding who is in charge as “absurd.”

Further changes are underway. Last week, agents officially ceased their practice of sending personnel into disaster areas to engage with victims about available services. This decision followed complaints regarding interactions that had been criticized last fall. Acting managers previously labeled this conduct by FEMA staff as “unacceptable.” Distancing from the scrutiny, the dismissed personnel claimed to have acted under their supervisor’s instructions to avoid “unpleasant encounters.”

Although many individuals access FEMA services through various channels like the agency’s website and hotline, two former officials emphasized that in-person outreach remains essential for connecting disaster victims with available resources. It remains uncertain if the agency plans to send personnel into Texas for door-to-door outreach.

This week, Democratic senators expressed frustration that Noem has yet to present the 2025 hurricane plans she mentioned in May, after they were promised to be shared.

New Jersey Senator Andy Kim, leading Democrat on the Disaster Management Subcommittee, plans to send another letter to Noem on Wednesday to solicit these plans.

“The delay in FEMA’s 2025 hurricane season plan report at the start of hurricane season highlights the ongoing slowness of DHS in providing essential information to this committee,” Kim asserted in his letter.

FEMA’s Future

Critical questions remain regarding FEMA’s role in disaster recovery: What responsibilities will it retain, and which will be delegated to states to manage independently?

Experts consulting with NBC News concur that while federal agencies should maintain responsibility for large-scale disasters, the question persists as to whether states could be empowered to handle smaller ones rather than deferring to federal assistance.

“Disaster prevention is paramount,” remarked Jeff Schlegermilch, director of Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster Response.

Natalie Simpson, a disaster response expert at the University of Buffalo, added that larger states could assume greater risk during disasters.

“I believe we could establish a local FEMA due to economies of scale in larger states like California, New York, and Florida, but I doubt their efficacy in smaller states,” she stated during an interview.

Current and former FEMA officials, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, have criticized FEMA as “inefficient and slow,” asserting the need for a more responsive approach. They highlighted that the governor called for a FEMA disaster declaration within days of the flood.

On Sunday, the president sidestepped inquiries about potential agency restructuring, stating:

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt commented that ongoing discussions are taking place regarding the agency’s broader objectives. “The President aims to ensure that American citizens have the resources they need, whether that assistance is provided at the state or federal level; it’s a matter of continuous policy discourse,” Leavitt remarked.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The “doomsday glacier” is melting at an alarming rate, putting Earth’s largest city in danger of flooding

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Considered one of West Antarctica’s most infamous glaciers, the “doomsday glacier” has earned its nickname due to the potentially significant rise in sea levels it could cause, ultimately reshaping coastlines. This glacier, known as Thwaites Glacier, is massive, the size of England and spanning 120km wide. It extends from the peak of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to the Amundsen Sea, where it reaches out onto an ice shelf.

Unfortunately, Thwaites Glacier is experiencing troubling changes, with a notable increase in ice loss over recent years as a consequence of climate change. The rate of ice loss has doubled in the past 30 years due to rising ocean temperatures, which lead to the melting of the ocean floor beneath the glacier. Warm water is being transported towards Thwaites, particularly deep below the ocean surface, contributing to this rapid ice loss. The land beneath West Antarctic glaciers is below sea level, and the sloping ocean floor means warmer waters can intrude underneath, eroding the glaciers and making them less stable.

A recent study revealed that Thwaites Glacier may be more susceptible than previously believed, with seawater surging beneath it for kilometers. The melting of glaciers, including Thwaites, could result in a significant rise in sea levels, potentially impacting coastal areas worldwide. Additionally, the collapse of Thwaites could trigger nearby glaciers to follow suit, further elevating global sea levels by more than three meters. This irreversible loss on human timescales would mark a critical “tipping point.”

Scientists are concerned about the potential collapse of Thwaites Glacier, as it could have disastrous consequences for sea levels and climate. Researchers are exploring strategies to adapt to these expected changes and protect coastal regions at risk of submersion. The costs of preparing for rising sea levels are substantial, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and adaptation. While sea level rise is inevitable, proactive measures can help mitigate its impact and protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems.

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Despite the impending challenges, scientists and experts emphasize the importance of courage and adaptation in the face of climate change. Dr. Caitlen Norton from the British Antarctic Survey stresses the need for resilience and preparedness to address the growing threat of rising sea levels. Adapting defenses, protecting coastal areas, and planning for future changes are crucial steps in mitigating the impact of climate change on coastal regions.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Rare Flooding in Dubai Caused by Heavy Rainfall

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Parts of the Middle East were hit by heavy rains on Tuesday, leading to school closures in the United Arab Emirates and flooding at Dubai International Airport. Oman has reported at least 18 deaths in recent days due to the inclement weather.

The storm caused flooding on roads and dangerous conditions throughout the region. This area is typically dry and not used to heavy rainfall or flash floods.

Airport officials confirmed that flights to Dubai Airport had to be diverted temporarily due to the unusual weather events in the UAE. Statement

Cars drive through flooded roads in Dubai on Tuesday after a heavy rainstorm.
Abdel Hadi Ramahi/Reuters

Video footage showed Dubai’s tarmac flooded, with planes navigating through floodwaters and support vehicles almost submerged, according to reports from Saudi Arabia’s Al Arabiya news agency.

Over 4.7 inches of rain fell in a day in the UAE, causing road and property flooding in Dubai. Associated Press reported.

The UAE’s National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority advised people to stay home. Commenting on X’s post, they suggested parking vehicles in safe, elevated areas away from flood-prone zones.

Pedestrians cross a flooded road in Dubai on Tuesday.
Anadolu (via Getty Images)

Private schools in the UAE were closed before the storm and government employees were advised to work remotely.

While the UAE is known for its dry climate, rain does occur occasionally during the winter.

In neighboring Oman, recent storms and heavy rain have led to the deaths of 10 school children and an adult driver in a flooded car, as reported by the Associated Press.

Other parts of the Middle East, such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, also experienced unusually wet weather this week.

It’s unclear if recent storms have been influenced by global warming, but the warming atmosphere from climate change can hold more moisture, leading to stronger storms and heavier rainfall. Studies have suggested this possibility.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Coastal Cities in the US Facing Increased Flooding Risk Due to Rising Sea Levels by 2050

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New Orleans is at risk of more flooding than expected due to land subsidence

William A. Morgan/Shutterstock

Sea levels are rising faster than expected in U.S. coastal cities, primarily due to land subsidence from groundwater and fossil fuel extraction. This means up to 518,000 additional people living in these areas could be at risk of major flooding by 2050 if adequate protection is not in place.

Coastal cities often experience subsidence, where the land gradually sinks over time. One of the biggest factors causing this is the compaction of the earth by extracting resources such as water and fossil fuels from the ground.

To investigate how land subsidence and sea level rise will impact coastal communities. leonard owenhen The Virginia Tech researchers created a model based on land elevation changes in 32 major coastal cities, including Boston and San Francisco, and sea level rise projections through 2050.

Researchers found that cities on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, such as New Orleans, have lower elevations and are sinking faster. It is sinking at least two millimeters more per year than other cities in the region, increasing the risk of future flooding. . Urban areas along the Pacific coast are better protected from rising sea levels because of their higher elevations.

“We were surprised to see that Biloxi, Mississippi, experienced the most rapid subsidence,” Owenhen says.

They also found that existing flood risk assessments in the United States do not take into account the combined effects of land subsidence, underestimating its threat. Researchers have found that nearly 1,400 square kilometers more land will be at risk of flooding by 2050 than current estimates. That means, in total, 1 in 50 people and 1 in 35 homes in 32 cities are at risk. .

This would put an additional 518,000 people and more than 288,000 homes at risk of flooding.

The study looked at flood risk for dozens of coastal U.S. cities by 2050.

Image courtesy of Leonard Owenhen

These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen U.S. flood protection now, team members say Manuchel Shirzai, also at Virginia Tech. “Individual cities will need to adapt differently. New Orleans will need to strengthen city-wide flood protection, while San Francisco will probably only need to protect its critical infrastructure.”

Other things could be done to reduce the threat. “If land subsidence is being caused by groundwater extraction, oil and gas development, or other human-induced stresses, we need to do everything we can to reverse these trends before it’s too late.” he says. Simon Anisfeld At Yale University.

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Source: www.newscientist.com