Rockfall risk added to Anchorage flood watch as second rain round targets Monday commute

Anchorage faces a second round of moderate to heavy rain likely to arrive during Monday's morning commute, falling on ground already soaked by about an inch of rain since Sunday afternoon, the National Weather Service warned Sunday. The agency added an explicit caution that additional rainfall may trigger rockfalls along the Seward Highway south of Anchorage.

Flood Watch Details

The Flood Watch covers Anchorage, Eagle River, Eklutna, and Indian from 4 AM through Monday evening. Forecasters put the probability of an additional half-inch to one inch of rain at 70 to 80 percent, with a 10 to 20 percent chance of exceeding one inch.

The Seward Highway is the primary road link between Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula. Alaska DOT&PF has long identified the corridor as one that traverses steep terrain subject to rockfalls. Commuters and freight carriers using the highway should expect possible delays or hazards and check Alaska 511 for current conditions.

Creek Levels and Local Risk

Chester Creek and Campbell Creek, both primary urban waterways in Anchorage, are expected to remain elevated through Tuesday morning, according to the watch. The Municipality of Anchorage Office of Emergency Management has been relaying NWS alerts to residents. Properties and trails along both creeks carry flood risk when the creeks run high.

The watch expires Monday evening. Residents should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings.