Flood in Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska

Widespread ice jam flooding impacted Kwethluk. The Riverwatch team reported the widespread flooding in Kwethluk which would continue to increase in severity as colder temperatures slowed down the movement of the ice jam downstream. The primary school in Kwethluk was flooded and numerous homes. Roads were impassible and flooding would continue to impact the community through May 14 when the water levels had fallen enough to open roads and cancel the warning.

Ice jam flooding along the Kuskokwim River moved through the lower areas of the basin beginning May 2 and continuing though May 14 for several communities along the Kuskokwim River. Flood watches were issued starting May 2 for the upper reach of the Kuskokwim River zone, progressing downstream ahead of flooding through May 12. Ice jam flooding moved slowly downstream based on river ice concentration and temperatures, with impacts varying depending on the residence time of the jam below a community and amount of impounded water.