Governor Mike Dunleavy proclaimed April 12 to 18 as Flood Preparedness Week in Alaska, according to an April 12 statement. The proclamation highlights the annual risk of flooding during spring due to ice jams, coastal storm surges, heavy precipitation, and rapid thawing of snow and ice.
Flooding poses a significant threat to Alaskan communities. Nearly nine out of ten Alaska Native villages experience flooding or erosion each year. Statewide flood events account for about three-quarters of all presidential emergency and major disaster declarations across the country.
The governor’s proclamation states that “the potential for loss of life, damage to property, and detrimental effects on the economy can be greatly reduced if appropriate flood preparedness and mitigation efforts are implemented before and after flood events.” The Alaska Silver Jackets team—a partnership among federal, state, and local agencies—plays a key role by facilitating comprehensive solutions such as mitigation planning, flood mapping, risk reduction strategies, and response planning.
Flood Preparedness Week aims to raise awareness among Alaskans about risks associated with flooding. Governor Dunleavy said he urges “all Alaskans to educate themselves about the potential for flood danger at their homes and in their communities and to share that knowledge with their neighbors.”
According to the official website, the Office of the Governor recognizes community events through proclamations honoring various groups including veterans and first responders. The office also focuses on restoring trust in government while promoting business opportunities throughout Alaska according to its website. Since his election in 2018—and reelection in 2022—Dunleavy has served as Alaska’s twelfth governor according to official information.
The Office of the Governor exercises authority across the state while maintaining an office in Washington D.C., advocating for Alaska’s interests as reported by its website. It advances economic development through agreements on infrastructure permitting and orders aimed at government efficiency according to official sources. Services offered include assistance with state agency issues as well as handling proclamation requests according to its website.
