The flood reached a record-breaking crest of 16.65 feet at about 8 a.m. Wednesday. Water continues to seep into Valley neighborhoods.

These floods, which began more than a decade ago, have become increasingly destructive in recent years and now pose a persistent summertime threat. This time, Alaska’s capital city fortified itself against the floodwaters.

Emergency officials warned major flooding was expected along the Mendenhall River late Tuesday through Wednesday, with flood waters expected to crest Wednesday before noon.