Record Snowfall Sinks Boats and Spurs Avalanche Concerns in Alaska

ijr.com

Juneau, Alaska, is grappling with record-breaking winter conditions as extreme snow and severe weather have already caused multiple boats to sink in the city’s harbor, while authorities brace for potential avalanches.

According to the New York Post, city officials reported that three large vessels sank overnight, bringing the total number of boats lost during the storm to eight. The Juneau Docks and Harbors Department described the situation as dire.

“Our crews are running around the clock, using every de-watering pump available, and we are now rapidly running out of resources as conditions persist,” the department said on social media.

The heavy snowfall has also heightened avalanche risks along Thane Road. The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities is actively conducting avalanche hazard reduction work on Thursday to prevent large-scale debris from endangering residents and motorists. 

The road will remain closed at the avalanche gates until crews can safely complete the mitigation work.

Officials cautioned that if avalanche debris reaches the roadway, an extended closure may be necessary. “This work is intended to reduce the risk of larger avalanches impacting the area,” DOT said.

Vessel owners have also been advised to avoid shoveling snow onto floats or finger floats, which are the owners’ responsibility to keep clear. 

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The Arctic District of the U.S. Coast Guard warned that heavy snow accumulation can rapidly destabilize boats, potentially causing them to sink, resulting in property damage and environmental hazards.

Alaska has endured an unusually snowy December. Juneau typically sees 40 to 50 inches of snow during the month, but December 2025 has shattered records with a staggering 82 inches.

To manage the crisis, the Juneau Docks and Harbors Department is recalling seasonal summer staff and creating short-term emergency positions to assist with snow removal and vessel safety.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant. Anyone who spots a boat at risk of sinking in any City and Borough of Juneau harbor is asked to contact the Harbor Office at 907-586-5255.

The combination of historic snowfall, sinking vessels, and avalanche threats has made Juneau one of the most dangerous winter hotspots in Alaska this season.

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