SC Alaska News

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, U.S. Senator for Alaska, used her social media account to update the public on a severe flooding event in Juneau and to comment on national energy policy.

On August 12, 2025, Murkowski posted about an ongoing flood risk in Juneau: "The latest round of glacial outburst flooding started this morning in Juneau, and officials are projecting this will be the worst yet — with the Mendenhall River flood forecast to reach 16.6 feet by tomorrow afternoon. This is likely to become a life-threatening situation. If".

The following day, she addressed energy policy concerns: "Taking electrons off the grid is just as fundamentally misguided as keeping energy in the ground. We need it all, and our policies must reflect that." This statement comes amid ongoing national debates over balancing renewable energy expansion with traditional resource development.

Later on August 13, Murkowski provided an update regarding the flood's progression: "This morning, the Mendenhall River crested at a record 16.65 feet. The good news is that water levels are now receding. While there are reports of damage, temporary barriers and other flood mitigation measures are helping reduce the impact on the community, and there are no".

Glacial outburst floods have become a recurring hazard for communities near melting glaciers such as those around Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier. These events can cause rapid rises in river levels due to sudden releases of meltwater from glacier-dammed lakes.

Murkowski has represented Alaska in the U.S. Senate since 2002 and frequently addresses both local disaster response efforts and broader national policy issues related to natural resources and infrastructure.