Coastal Flood in Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska

Below average sea ice extent, including shorefast ice, was insufficient to properly shelter communities along the Kuskokwim Delta coast from storm surge. A Kwigillingok community coordinator shared pictures showcasing flooding that occurred on January 12th. Flooding continued into January 13th, coinciding with the high tide. The community leader noted that water levels were worse than a recent flooding event that took place on January 10th.

A large and strong low moved up the North Pacific into the eastern Bering Sea, peaking in strength as it moved up the Kuskokwim Delta. The orientation of the low's front was ideal for strong winds across Southcentral Alaska. Damaging winds were observed across parts of the Turnagain Arm, Kenai Peninsula, Matanuska Valley, and Anchorage. A significant amount of moisture also was transported by this system, causing issues with localized flooding and ponding of water on roads across parts of Southcentral. Snow fell in higher elevations, with multiple feet recorded in Thompson Pass. Colder temperatures prevailed after the front passed, allowing for heavy snowfall in Whittier on the morning of January 12. In Southwest Alaska, high surf, and minor coastal flooding in the Kuskokwim Delta Coast resulted from strong onshore winds. Low sea ice coverage was a factor in this flooding episode.