Avalanche Evacuation Advisory Lifted, Juneau Facilities to Reopen Monday
juneau, Alaska – January 13, 2026 – Following a period of heightened avalanche risk, the City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) has lifted the evacuation advisory for all areas except the Behrends Avenue slide path. City facilities and Juneau School District schools will resume normal operations on Monday, January 14th, with the exception of Mountain View Elementary School (MRCS), which will remain closed.
Avalanche Risk and Recent Conditions
Recent heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack conditions prompted the CBJ to issue an avalanche evacuation advisory,urging residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for potential evacuation. While the immediate threat has subsided in most areas, the Behrends Avenue slide path remains at risk, and the advisory remains in effect for that location. This decision is based on ongoing assessments by avalanche experts and local emergency management officials.
Facility and School Reopening Details
The majority of CBJ facilities, including City Hall, libraries, and recreation centers, will reopen to the public on Monday. The Juneau School District will also resume classes at all schools except for Mountain View Elementary School (MRCS). The closure of MRCS is due to its location within a previously identified avalanche zone, and officials are prioritizing the safety of students and staff. A decision regarding the reopening of MRCS will be made after further assessment of the snowpack stability.
Centennial Hall will remain open as an emergency shelter for those displaced by the earlier evacuation orders. However, free parking at downtown CBJ garages, which was offered to support the shelter operations, will end on Monday.Residents are advised to make alternative parking arrangements.
Ongoing Monitoring and Safety Precautions
The CBJ Emergency Operations Center continues to monitor weather and avalanche conditions closely. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about potential hazards and take necessary precautions. Key resources include:
- CBJ Emergency Management Website: https://www.juneau.org/emergency-management
- National Weather Service – Juneau Forecast Office: https://www.weather.gov/jnu/
- Alaska Avalanche Data Center: https://www.alaskasnow.org/
Residents in the Behrends avenue area are urged to remain vigilant and heed any further instructions from emergency officials. It is crucial to avoid travel in or near avalanche terrain, especially during and after periods of heavy snowfall.
Understanding Avalanche Risk in Juneau
Juneau’s mountainous terrain makes it susceptible to avalanches, especially during periods of heavy snowfall. Avalanches are a natural hazard, but their impact can be minimized through careful monitoring, public awareness, and proactive mitigation measures. The CBJ works closely with avalanche experts to assess risk levels and implement appropriate safety protocols.
What is an Avalanche?
An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a sloping surface. Avalanches are typically triggered by factors such as heavy snowfall, rapid warming, or human activity. They can vary in size and speed, posing a important threat to life and property.
Staying Safe in Avalanche terrain
- Check the Avalanche Forecast: Before venturing into the backcountry, always check the latest avalanche forecast from the Alaska avalanche Information Center.
- Travel with a Partner: Never travel alone in avalanche terrain.
- Carry Avalanche Safety Gear: Essential gear includes an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe.
- Know how to Use Yoru Gear: Proper training is crucial for effectively using avalanche safety equipment.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to terrain features and snow conditions.
The CBJ and the Juneau School District are committed to ensuring the safety of residents and students. Continued monitoring and public awareness are essential for mitigating the risks associated with avalanches.
