Spring breakup is here Alaska! Be prepared if flooding impacts your community
April 18, 2024
As winter loosens its grip and temperatures rise, many of us eagerly look forward to spring and summer activities, such as harvesting hooligan or picking greens. For many regions, the thawing of winter snow can bring danger.
Floods triggered by melting snow, often referred to as snowmelt floods or spring thaws, pose significant risks to both property and lives. As the snow melts, it can overwhelm rivers, streams and drainage systems, leading to rapid rises in water levels.
By taking proactive measures and preparing ahead of time, we can minimize the risks and protect ourselves, our families and our communities from the impact of snowmelt floods. If your community has a Small Community Emergency Response Plan (SCERP), take time to review and familiarize yourself with the plan.
Comprehensive preparation can happen in stages:
One month before breakup
- Make plans together as a community.
- Take inventories of at-risk equipment, such as generators and snowmachines.
- Secure fuel tanks to prevent them from floating away.
- Ensure emergency kits and gear are available.
Two weeks before breakup
- Stock up on food, water, medications and other personal emergency items.
- Connect with Elders and others who need help.
- Start preparing essential facilities for possible flooding.
- Identify emergency response equipment, such as boats, personal floatation devices, sandbags, shovels and first aid kits.
Flood warning has been issued
- Flood-proof designated facilities.
- Familiarize yourself with your community’s emergency plan.
- Move items to higher ground, such as generators, four-wheelers and snowmachines.
- Move items within your home to a higher level, such as canned and dry goods, potable water or anything you want to prevent damage.
- The River Watch Team will meet with local leaders when they visit your community.
Evacuation has been issued
- Move community members to designated shelter.
- Stay updated on the situation through official channels and adhere to any further instructions or updates provided by authorities.
- Bring personal supplies if possible and be prepared to share resources with others.
- Be prepared to gather essential items such as medications, important documents, clothing, food, and water quickly.
Monitor the following online resource sites for more information:
- Tanana Chiefs Conference Flood Preparedness Guide: https://www.tananachiefs.org/flood-preparedness/
- Statewide River and Breakup Conditions: https://www.weather.gov/aprfc/
- NOAA Breakup map: https://www.weather.gov/aprfc/breakupMap
- NWS River Watch Program: https://www.weather.gov/aprfc/riverWatchProgram