News Release

Bear Glacier: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood

Date: September 7, 2022
Contact: Laura Sturtz

Flood conditions are expected in the lagoon at the terminus of Bear Glacier.  Based on photographs from a remote camera and observations by a local flight seeing company, it appears that an ice-dammed lake located 7 mi above the terminus of Bear Glacier began draining around September 6, 2022. A local kayak guiding company has provided reports that the lagoon levels are rising. In addition to the water that is releasing from the ice-dammed lake, Seward is forecast to get several inches of rain in the next few days which may intensify flooding in the lagoon as well as surrounding areas. 

Flooding in the lagoon at Bear Glacier’s terminus is expected for the next few days.  Draining of the ice-dammed lake can create hazardous boating conditions in the lagoon that might include: an increase in iceberg calving at the terminus of Bear Glacier, standing waves and strong currents, or the redistribution of sediment and debris in channels like the one that exists at the outlet of the lagoon.  Calved ice chunks have been released from the lagoon into Resurrection Bay during past glacial lake outburst floods.  These ice chunks can be difficult to see and could cause significant damage and/or injury to boaters. If floating ice is released into Resurrection Bay, it will likely be present at the mouth of Resurrection Bay indefinitely.  Boaters in marine waters should be extra cautious to avoid hitting ice.   

Please stay alert to changing conditions when in the lagoon at Bear Glacier as well as throughout Kenai Fjords National Park. For the most up-to-date information on the status of this area, contact the park at 907-422-0500. Reports of unusual conditions or events are always appreciated.