In brief
In the aftermath of Typhoon Halong, Alaska is grappling with unprecedented challenges as military and helicopters conduct a major airlift to evacuate residents from devastated coastal communities. Over 1,500 people have sought refuge in makeshift shelters after record-high water levels flooded areas like Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. With damage assessments underway, the focus shifts to safety, welfare, and restoring essential services in a region vulnerable to climate change impacts. Community leaders are calling for extended government support amid looming winter conditions.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — One of the most significant airlifts in Alaskan history is underway by helicopter and military transport plane, moving hundreds of people from coastal villages ravaged by high surf and strong winds from the remnants of Typhoon Halong last weekend.
The storm brought record high water to two low-lying Alaska Native communities and washed away homes, some with people inside. At least one person was killed and two are missing. Makeshift shelters have quickly been established, accommodating about 1,500 people, an extraordinary number in a sparsely populated region where communities are reachable only by air or water this time of year.
The remote nature and scope of the destruction created challenges for getting resources in place. Damage assessments are trickling in as responders transition from initial search-and-rescue operations to stabilizing or restoring basic services.
The communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok near the Bering Sea saw water levels exceed 6 feet above the highest normal tide line. Approximately 121 homes were destroyed in Kipnuk, a village of about 700 people.
Leaders requested state assistance to evacuate more than 1,000 residents from the affected areas, said Jeremy Zidek, a spokesperson with the state emergency management office.
As of Wednesday, about 300 evacuees have been transported to Anchorage, around 500 miles east of the impacted coastal villages. Approximately 400 people are being sheltered at the Alaska Airlines Center, with additional shelter space in Bethel reaching capacity and food supplies dwindling.
Emergency services have begun restoring cell service in Kwigillingok, and essential facilities are being addressed. However, officials warn that many homes have suffered severe damage, and residents are advised against reentering due to safety concerns.
Amidst ongoing recovery efforts, the situation has highlighted the impacts of previous federal funding cuts that hinder preparedness for such disasters. Community leaders emphasize the need for sustained support to mitigate future climate change effects.
“What’s happening in Kipnuk shows the real cost of pulling back support that was already promised to front line communities,” said Jill Habig from the Public Rights Project. “These grants were designed to help local governments prepare for and adapt to climate change risks.”
As temperatures drop and winter approaches, the urgency of securing safe accommodations for the evacuees remains a top priority for emergency management officials.
