|
Forest Service reminds citizens of winter ice, ice cave safety JUNEAU, Alaska - As winter approaches and temperatures continue to drop, the Forest Service reminds people to keep safety in mind when visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. “The frozen lake and its surroundings are incredibly dynamic during winter,” said Laurie Craig, Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center naturalist. “Many Juneauites believe the glacier remains idle during the frozen months, but that is not true.”
Forest Service officials said there is no way to predict lake ice stability regardless of cold temperatures or ice thickness. For safety reasons, people should steer clear of the glacier’s terminus, including ice caves, creeks flowing
into the lake, icebergs, the start of Mendenhall River, and Nugget Falls. In addition, over the past year, the popular Mendenhall Glacier ice cave has undergone significant deterioration, particularly at the cave entrance. Heavy rainfall and typical summer melting are the possible sources of the deterioration
of the ice cave. Ice caves are temporary natural phenomena with limited longevity.
The ice cave could collapse because the entrance continues to thin and other holes in the cave have opened and widened. Forest Service officials warn people to stay away from the cave due to this potential for collapse.
A collapse of the ice cave entrance could be fatal or cause serious injuries if ice or rock debris fall on people or pets. A significant number of emergency rescues occur each year on the glacier and nearby rock peninsula from trips and
falls. There is no maintained trail to the ice cave. Although Forest Service officials strongly recommend people stay away from the ice cave because of thinning ice, some people may still attempt to enter the cave. Those individuals who choose to go to the cave despite the danger should
review the Mendenhall Glacier and ice cave frequently asked questions section on the Tongass National Forest website:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tongass/about-forest/offices/?cid=stelprdb5401454. These FAQ’s address topics, such as the need for hikers to be prepared for rugged conditions, wearing sturdy boots with ice cleats, additional safety gear, and good quality outdoor clothing. The FAQ’s also address the need to have a communication
plan so a friend knows where you are traveling and your anticipated time of return. It also covers the importance of carrying dry clothing, food and water for survival in case of an unplanned overnight stay.
The Forest Service will repeat the popular lake-ice safety rescue demonstration in conjunction with Capital City Fire and Rescue as winter progresses. Details about this event will be published at a later date.
-end- USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately. |
