A major nor’easter swept through the East Coast on Sunday, causing road washouts and significant air travel delays. Heavy rains, strong winds, and coastal flooding affected many areas in the Northeast. Meanwhile, western Alaska faced the remnants of Typhoon Halong, leading to dangerous hurricane-force winds and severe flooding, displacing homes from their foundations.
In Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, two isolated communities in Alaska, emergency responders were dispatched as reports emerged of homes being swept away. Jeremy Zidek, from the state Division of Homeland Security, mentioned that up to 20 people might be unaccounted for. “People’s homes have floated away,” he said, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Search efforts were ongoing, but the extent of missing persons remained uncertain. With limited access to their towns, residents rely on boats and snowmobiles for transportation. Currently, around 600 people in Kipnuk and 300 in Kwigillingok are seeking shelter in schools. Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy assured residents, “Help is on the way.”
Coastal areas from the Carolinas to New England experienced torrential rains. “The biggest concern is coastal flooding,” said meteorologist Bob Oravec from the National Weather Service. In Delaware, the National Guard was activated to assist with rising floodwaters. In North Carolina’s Outer Banks, storm damage has been severe, with homes at risk of falling into the ocean due to erosion.
In Georgetown County, South Carolina, several rescues were made as rising waters caught some drivers off guard. Reports indicate parts of the area received up to 7 inches of rainfall. Residents like David Graubner shared their struggles, noting significant flooding in their homes. “Even lowering the water by a few inches makes a difference,” he remarked.
New Jersey declared a state of emergency, allowing emergency services to swiftly respond to the conditions. New York followed suit, issuing a declaration for eight southern counties. These regions expect moderate to severe flooding, strong winds, and rain accumulations that could lead to erosion and damage.
This string of storms reflects escalating climate challenges. According to a recent report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the frequency and intensity of coastal storms are increasing, a trend that many experts attribute to climate change. Communities on the front lines, like those in Alaska and along the East Coast, are experiencing the harsh realities of these environmental shifts.
As the storm moves out by Monday night, residents remain alert and prepared for ongoing recovery efforts.
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