Juneau races to clear record snow before rain arrives

Juneau has nearly 40 inches of snow on the ground and declared an emergency while crews and volunteers work to remove snow ahead of rain expected Thursday.

Juneau is working to remove large accumulations of snow across the city as wet weather is expected later in the week. Nearly 40 inches of snow are reported on the ground after back-to-back storms, and the airport recorded a new all-time snow depth. City officials announced an emergency declaration on Tuesday and requested state assistance. Officials say rain beginning Thursday could raise the risk of flooding and add weight to the deep snowpack. Key facts: - Nearly 40 inches of snow are on the ground after consecutive storms, with 50 inches recorded at the airport setting a snow depth record. - The city declared an emergency and has requested state assistance to help with snow removal and related impacts. - Crews and volunteers are clearing rooftops, digging out vehicles and boats, and hauling truckloads of snow, and officials report limited space remaining to pile more snow. - The Alaska Department of Energy authorized dumping clean, freshly fallen snow in places into the Gastineau Channel in some locations. - Weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman reported that rain is expected beginning Thursday and said that could increase flooding risk and add weight to the snowpack. Summary: Officials report that the depth of snow and limited storage options have prompted an emergency declaration and a request for state help, while crews continue removal efforts across the city. Rain expected later in the week is reported to raise flood and roof-load risks, and officials have released information such as storm-drain maps as the situation develops.