Flood in Lower Koyukuk Middle Ykn Vlys, Alaska

An ice jam formed at Bishop Rock on the Yukon River, downstream of Galena on the 26th and caused water to back up. flooding began during mid-morning of the 27th and flood waters did not recede until the 31st. All structures were impacted by the high water except those significantly elevated or protected by the dike which surrounds the airport. Almost all roads were washed out...with boats being used for emergency transportation. Power was out to most of the city. Many residents were evacuated to nearby villages or to Fairbanks. Ice chunks knocked some houses off their foundation. Other buildings had up to 8 feet of water. At 1830AKST on the 29th water started slowly falling as the ice jam eased a bit. It was not until the morning of the 31st when water levels fell below flood stage. Damage amounts are estimated and include 14 homes destroyed, 90 homes with major damage, and 55 homes with minor damage, and nearly 6 million dollars for emergency response and public infrastructure.