Avalanche Evacuation Advisory Issued Amidst Rising Concerns
Early morning walkers in the Behrends neighborhood, located on Mount Juneau, were startled to witness the release of two minor avalanches. This incident happened shortly after an evacuation advisory had been issued for the residents living on known avalanche paths in the city and along a significant road.
Ezra Strong, who resides on Gruening Avenue with his wife and dog, was one such resident who chose to ignore the advisory. He explained that his property is somewhat shielded by a rock wall and other features, and they have previously experienced slides that posed no real threat to their home.
Minor Avalanches: A Blessing in Disguise?
The city's Avalanche Advisor suggested that these smaller slides could actually prove beneficial in reducing the risks associated with larger avalanches. This is because they lessen the overall snow load that could potentially trigger a more significant event.
He expressed his relief over the occurrence of smaller slides, which decrease the total snow load capable of causing a devastating avalanche.
Continued Avalanche Activity Expected
A flurry of minor avalanches occurred along a significant road and above a popular trail. The department responsible for transportation and public facilities has confirmed these incidents and anticipates more avalanches due to the continued heavy rainfall, strong winds and warming temperatures. This may result in the extension of the road closure for several days.
Residents Seek Refuge Amidst Avalanche Threat
Following the evacuation advisory, some residents from the Behrends neighborhood sought refuge in their friends' homes or at Centennial Hall, an official shelter managed by the city and a humanitarian organization.
One of the residents who decided to evacuate was Carlos Cadiente. He and his wife, who live near a high school in the Behrends slide path, packed their cars and were prepared to leave at a moment's notice. This was their first time adhering to an avalanche evacuation advisory despite having lived there for many years.
Carlos stated that their decision to evacuate was a proactive measure in response to the extreme weather conditions, and they did not want to create any problems.
Emergency Shelter Ready for Evacuees
The community disaster program manager for a humanitarian organization in Southeast, Britt Tonnessen, has collaborated with the city to establish an emergency shelter at Centennial Hall downtown. According to Tonnessen, they have been preparing for a potential evacuation for the past week.
Tonnessen reminded that they have witnessed several deadly landslides and avalanches in the past decade. Although an evacuation center may not be an ideal solution, it is a safe place to be, and their caring and dedicated volunteers are ready to meet people's needs.
She welcomed anyone from the avalanche-prone zones and those who feel their roofs are under too much weight to the shelter. They are prepared to accommodate up to 150 people, and approximately 30 people had already registered by early afternoon.
Weather Conditions Likely to Worsen
With the worsening weather and road conditions, the threat of avalanches is expected to escalate into the evening.