Alaska Airlifts Hundreds from Storm-Ravaged Coastal Regions
Alaska is currently experiencing one of its most significant airlifts in history. Helicopters and military transport planes are relocating hundreds of residents from coastal villages impacted by the remnants of Typhoon Halong. The storm, which struck over the weekend, resulted in record high water levels that devastated several communities.
Impact of Typhoon Halong on Coastal Communities
Flooding has severely affected the low-lying Native communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. Water levels surged over 6 feet above the normal tide line. This catastrophic event has led to the destruction of approximately 121 homes in Kipnuk, a village with around 700 residents. Tragically, at least one person has been confirmed dead, and two others are missing.
Evacuation and Shelter Efforts
- More than 1,000 residents from Kipnuk and Kwigillingok have been asked to evacuate.
- Approximately 300 evacuees were flown to Anchorage, located about 500 miles east of the hard-hit communities.
- Emergency shelters have been established but are currently at full capacity, particularly in Bethel.
- The Alaska Airlines Center is serving as a temporary shelter with a capacity for about 400 individuals.
State officials are working diligently to stabilize essential services while balancing search-and-rescue operations. Concerns have arisen regarding the safety of reentering flood-damaged homes, especially with forecasts predicting further rain and snow this weekend.
Current Conditions and Infrastructure Damage
The infrastructure damage across various villages is alarming. In Napaskiak, vital water and sewer systems are non-operational. Additionally, the Coast Guard was scheduled to evaluate a waste oil spill of up to 2,000 gallons in another village. Emergency management officials have indicated that some homes in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok will remain uninhabitable even after emergency repairs.
Challenges Ahead
As conditions worsen with temperatures expected to drop below freezing, the priority remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. Mark Roberts from the state emergency management agency stated the immediate focus is on keeping people “safe, warm, and cared for.” There is uncertainty regarding the timeline for evacuation and search for additional shelter options.
The Role of Federal Support
The disaster has also spotlighted budget cuts during the Trump administration that impacted grants aimed at helping vulnerable communities. For instance, a $20 million Environmental Protection Agency grant designated for flood protection in Kipnuk was discontinued, hindering preparation for such disasters.
Jill Habig, CEO of the Public Rights Project, emphasized the consequences of withdrawing support from frontline communities. “These grants were intended to help local governments prepare for and adapt to the increasing effects of climate change,” she remarked.
As Alaska navigates this disaster, the urgent need for support and robust infrastructure becomes increasingly evident. The fight to restore affected communities continues, with local leaders actively seeking assistance in their recovery efforts.
