Juneau: CBJ, Tlingit & Haida Declare Local Disaster, Governor Dunleavy Declares State Disaster Ahead of Incoming Storm
AkGlobe News/10336931

Trending...
~ Juneau, Alaska - The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) and Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) have jointly issued a local disaster declaration and requested additional state assistance due to the prolonged heavy snowfall and its impacts on critical infrastructure. This declaration was followed by a verbal State disaster declaration from Governor Dunleavy, which will provide access to emergency and operational resources for recovery efforts.

According to CBJ and Tlingit & Haida, the local disaster declaration was necessary as the ongoing snowfall has created a threat to critical public facilities, including schools. They have determined that additional resources are needed beyond those currently available in order to keep these facilities safe for students, staff, and the entire community of Juneau.

President Chalyee Éesh Richard Peterson of Tlingit & Haida stated, "This joint disaster declaration reflects the seriousness of what our community is facing and the responsibility we share to protect our people and critical infrastructure." He also expressed gratitude for the swift response from the State of Alaska and emphasized the importance of working closely with CBJ, state agencies, and the community to ensure safety, support recovery efforts, and prepare for future weather events.

More on AkGlobe News
The joint request from CBJ and Tlingit & Haida includes a call for state resources and expertise in addressing issues such as roof snow loads, drainage problems, hydrant access, avalanche monitoring, and operational support. The National Weather Service has predicted high precipitation levels and rapidly warming temperatures at the end of this week, which could increase avalanche and landslide risks. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has already begun mobilizing resources in response.

CBJ City Manager Katie Koester acknowledged the partnership between Tlingit & Haida, Alaska DOT&PF (Department of Transportation & Public Facilities), National Weather Service, and residents in responding to this disaster. However, she also noted that the situation is unprecedented and the community is exhausted. She expressed gratitude to the State of Alaska for recognizing the ongoing threat and providing resources to aid in recovery efforts.

Per CBJ Code and State Law, the CBJ Assembly will make a ratification determination at a special meeting this evening, January 7th at 5:15 p.m. The public can participate in this meeting by visiting juneauak.portal.civicclerk.com.

More on AkGlobe News
Both CBJ and Tlingit & Haida appreciate the quick response from SEOC, who began mobilizing staff from state agencies outside of Juneau even before the disaster declaration was made. They also extend their thanks to state and local workers, residents, and citizens who have been actively involved in responding to the snowfall.

To stay informed about the ongoing situation, residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at bit.ly/CBJAlerts, check in with the CBJ Avalanche Advisory webpage at bit.ly/CBJavalanche, view road closures at 511.alaska.gov, follow updates from National Weather Service Juneau at www.weather.gov/ajk, review interactive Avalanche Risk maps at bit.ly/4pjkGBA, and follow partner agencies on social media. For any inquiries, please contact Ashley Heimbigner at (907) 586-5240.

Filed Under: Government, City
Show All News | Disclaimer | Report Violation

0 Comments

Latest on AkGlobe News