In brief
The remnants of Typhoon Halong have caused catastrophic flooding in western Alaska, displacing thousands and leaving communities in turmoil. With numerous homes destroyed and urgent aid needed, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has requested a major disaster declaration from the White House. Evacuees are being airlifted to Anchorage, where officials are working to provide shelter and long-term housing solutions while navigating the challenges of winter in the Arctic.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Severe flooding from Typhoon Halong has devastated several remote Alaskan villages, displacing more than 2,000 residents. Governor Mike Dunleavy has announced that many displaced individuals may not be able to return to their homes for at least 18 months, prompting a request for a major disaster declaration from the White House.
In Kipnuk, one of the hardest-hit communities, 121 homes—approximately 90% of the total—were reported destroyed. Meanwhile, Kwigillingok saw three dozen homes swept away, leaving many of the remaining structures uninhabitable.
The storm, which struck the area with the intensity of a Category 2 hurricane, resulted in one confirmed death and two individuals still missing, as rescue operations aided those in need.
Officials are working to airlift those affected and have already relocated over 575 individuals to Anchorage, where they are being housed at various facilities while more flights are planned in the coming days. Local leaders estimate that around 1,600 evacuees may arrive in the city.
As the state undergoes extensive damage assessments, Dunleavy emphasized the unique challenges presented by Alaska’s climate and geography, predicting that many of the affected residents will remain displaced throughout the harsh winter.
Efforts are underway to transition evacuees from emergency shelters to longer-term housing solutions, with the federal government already providing assistance for search and rescue operations.
Residents like Alexie Stone are adjusting to the changes, contemplating employment in Anchorage while expressing gratitude for the support received from other Alaskans. Anchorage officials pledged their commitment to helping the displaced individuals as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.
State representatives have also voiced their concerns and gratitude for community support during this trying time, stressing the importance of unity as Alaska navigates these challenges.
