Alaska Airlifts Hundreds from Flood-Hit Coastal Villages
In an unprecedented airlift operation, hundreds of residents from coastal villages in Alaska are being relocated due to severe flooding caused by Typhoon Halong. The storm, which struck on a Saturday evening, resulted in record water levels in low-lying communities, leading to the destruction of homes and displacement of residents.
Impact of Typhoon Halong
Coastal villages like Kipnuk and Kwigillingok were heavily affected, experiencing water levels exceeding six feet above normal tide lines. As a result, makeshift shelters in the area have swelled to accommodate approximately 1,500 evacuees. Emergency management officials reported that several homes were swept into the sea, contributing to urgent rescue operations.
Rescue Efforts and Evacuations
The Alaska National Guard and Alaska State Troopers commenced rescue missions within hours of the storm’s impact. Personnel were reportedly airlifting individuals from rooftops and wading through water to reach stranded residents. To date, more than 300 evacuees have been transported to Anchorage, located nearly 500 miles from the affected areas.
- Number of evacuees: Approximately 1,500 in makeshift shelters.
- Homes washed away: At least one home was occupied and swept into the sea.
- Current missing persons: Two individuals.
- Distance of Anchorage from coastal villages: About 500 miles.
Community Challenges
Damage assessments reveal that many homes are uninhabitable, with concerns growing as temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, along with potential rain and snow. Local leadership is urging residents to stay away from damaged properties due to safety risks.
Temporary shelters have been established at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage, with capacity challenges noted in Bethel, the closest regional hub. Authorities are actively seeking additional shelter options to house those affected.
Long-Term Concerns and Sustainability
The flooding disaster has intensified discussions regarding federal support for vulnerable communities. The termination of a $20 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency aimed at helping Kipnuk prepare for such storms highlights the vulnerabilities these communities face due to climate change. Activists argue that such funding is essential for supporting Indigenous villages in adapting to environmental challenges.
As emergency services work to stabilize the situation, officials remain focused on ensuring the immediate well-being of the evacuees while planning for long-term recovery efforts.
