In brief
In response to unprecedented flooding and destruction caused by Typhoon Halong, hundreds of residents from the Alaskan villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok are being evacuated by helicopter and military transport. The storm resulted in record water levels over six feet above normal, displacing around 1,500 residents into makeshift shelters as officials begin damage assessments and restoration efforts.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — One of the most significant airlifts in Alaskan history is underway, with helicopters and military transport planes moving hundreds of people from coastal villages that were ravaged by high surf and strong winds from the remnants of Typhoon Halong last weekend. The unprecedented storm brought record high water to two low-lying Alaska Native communities, washing away homes with people inside. At least one person has been confirmed dead, while two others are reported missing.Makeshift shelters have been quickly established, swelling to accommodate around 1,500 displaced individuals in a sparsely populated region where communities are only accessible by air or water. This level of destruction and the region's remoteness have posed significant challenges for emergency responders as they transition from search-and-rescue operations to stabilizing and restoring essential services, such as water and electricity.The communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok experienced water levels exceeding six feet (1.8 meters) above normal, leading to the destruction of at least 121 homes in Kipnuk, which has a population of approximately 700 people. Local leaders are urging the evacuation of over 1,000 residents from the impacted areas, as authorities work tirelessly to ensure community safety in the wake of this disaster. The efforts have so far facilitated the evacuation of about 300 individuals to Anchorage, nearly 500 miles (805 kilometers) from their homes.Efforts to provide shelter in nearby Bethel have been hampered by high demand, and food supplies are reportedly dwindling. Some facilities have begun to restore utilities, such as cell phone service in Kwigillingok and working restrooms at local schools, although significant damage remains. Many homes are deemed unsafe, with emergency management officials indicating that some may not be livable by winter, and anticipation of additional rain and snow heightens concerns.Critics have raised alarms about previous funding cuts that aimed to help communities prepare for disasters such as this. A significant $20 million grant, aimed at protecting Kipnuk from flooding, was terminated in previous years, highlighting the precarious nature of support for these vulnerable populations. Authorities continue to assess damage while taking immediate steps to ensure residents' safety in the face of ongoing challenges.
