JUNEAU, Alaska — In a dire situation, Alaskan officials are racing against time to secure housing for residents of coastal villages devastated by the remnants of Typhoon Halong. With the looming threat of winter storms, their options for assistance are limited, exacerbating an already critical crisis.
The storm has wreaked havoc across remote Alaska Native communities, notably in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, where high winds and storm surges have inundated lower-lying areas. In a weekend of destruction, the Coast Guard rescued people from flooded homes, with reports of missing residents and hundreds seeking shelter in school facilities. Many of these shelters lack essential facilities, including functioning toilets.
The aftermath of Typhoon Halong has displaced more than 1,300 individuals. Some evacuees have been flown to emergency shelters in Bethel, while plans are being considered to relocate others to Anchorage and Fairbanks as space runs thin.
Significant infrastructure and fuel depots have sustained damage, raising environmental concerns over pollution that threatens already vulnerable local wildlife. The loss of food supplies, including freezers full of salmon and moose intended for winter survival, adds another layer of hardship for native communities.
Among the hardest-hit towns are Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, which are accessible only by air or water at this time of year. Incident Commander Mark Roberts highlighted Kipnuk's catastrophic conditions during a press briefing, stating, “It’s as bad as you can think.” With most homes damaged, the community faces an uphill battle to recover.
Power systems have failed in additional areas, and severe erosion has been reported. National Guard units have been activated to assist with relief efforts as officials work to bring food, water, and generators into the impacted villages. Recovery will be a long road, especially with winter approaching.
Alaska climate expert Rick Thoman underscored the resilience of indigenous communities but lamented the overwhelming challenges they face. He emphasized the necessity for considerable ongoing assistance as the harsh winter conditions draw near.
