Erosion and High Water in Noatak

Observation by Jeffrey Luther:

I put 5 foot markers on the bank this year, data wasn't recorded until I started on Tuesday. In only 2 days this part has eroded nearly 15 ft. I add another 10ft to this 20ft section I had marked. I will update once any significant changes are made, after today I will check on it daily. The photo is at the old Noatak dumpsite.

Comments from LEO Editors:

This observation has been forwarded to the Maniilaq Association Environmental Health Department and the ANTHC Department of Environmental Health and Engineering.

During the winter of 2019-2020, much of Alaska received above-average precipitation. Warm spring temperatures are causing the snowpack to quickly melt, leading to flooding and erosion in some communities. The Kotzebue Airport recorded temperatures in the upper 50's, which is warmer than the normal high of about 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

On May 28th, 2020, the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management had no special weather statement for the Northwest Arctic, but there was one for neighboring North Slope. The Daily Situation Report read:

A special weather statement is in effect for breakup on the North Slope. Warm temperatures in the Brooks Range are causing rapid snow melt that will continue through this weekend. Rivers draining north such as the Colville, Kuparuk and Sagavanirktok rivers all have ice remaining near the coast, and could have ice jam issues near the coast this week as rising water levels move downstream towards the coast. Rivers near the Arctic Coast should be monitored closely for ice jams and potential.