Typhoon Halong Brings Devastating Storm to Western Alaska
The remnants of Typhoon Halong have brought catastrophic flooding and hurricane-force winds to coastal communities in western Alaska, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The tiny Alaskan villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok were particularly affected, with reports of up to 20 people possibly unaccounted for, according to Jeremy Zidek, spokesperson for the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Rescue aircraft were dispatched to the area, with the Alaska State Troopers confirming that both villages were hit by “strong winds and heavy flooding, which caused significant damage, including at least eight homes being pushed from their foundations.”
According to the Alaska State Troopers, at least 18 people were rescued in Kwigillingok, while at least 16 people were rescued in Kipnuk. However, three people were still unaccounted for in Kwigillingok as of 6:50 p.m. local time, and troopers had also received reports of people still unaccounted for in Kipnuk, although the exact number could not be confirmed. The search efforts are ongoing, with the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Air National Guard, Alaska Army National Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard all involved in the disaster response.
Response Efforts and Support
More than a dozen agencies are involved in the disaster response, including the Alaska National Guard, which has been requested to activate up to 60 members to assist with storm response operations across affected western Alaska communities. The nonprofit Coastal Villages Region Fund reported that nearly 600 people in Kipnuk were taking shelter at a local school, while around 300 were sheltering in a school in Kwigillingok. Roads and boardwalks were inundated, and power lines were damaged in several Yukon-Kuskokwim communities, including Bethel, Napaskiak, and Napakiak.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has assured that “help is on the way” and has expanded the state’s disaster declaration to include areas impacted by the storm. The governor initially issued the disaster declaration on Thursday in western Alaska following another powerful storm. The affected areas are among the most isolated in the U.S., with limited access to roads and residents relying on boardwalks, boats, and snowmobiles to get around.
Continued Support and Relief Efforts
The situation in western Alaska remains dire, with many communities struggling to recover from the devastating effects of Typhoon Halong. The ongoing search and rescue efforts are a testament to the dedication and resilience of the emergency responders and local communities. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential to provide support and resources to those affected by the storm. For more information and updates on the situation, please visit Here.
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