Trying to understand the enormity of an avalanche is almost impossible. This one in Alaska has closed a major highway and made a huge lake. Just. Like. That.
A huge avalanche in Alaska has closed the Richardson Highway for about a week now. When viewed by helicopter, it's easy to see why. The snow has covered the road in probably something like 70 feet of snow. And see that body of water? Yeah, that's because it blocked an entire waterway, making a brand new lake.
Workers are using dynamite to bring down loose snow and will be working to get rid of ice left by the water. There is an estimated 50-60 feet of snow there, so there is a lot of cleanup left.
Thanks avalanche.
Hat Tip to @kmatth!
Gigantic Alaskan Avalanche Closes Highway, Creates 2,500 Foot Lake