Unprecedented Alaska Storm Leaves Evacuees Displaced for 18+ Months: What You Need to Know

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Recent flooding in remote Alaskan villages has left over 2,000 people displaced. Governor Mike Dunleavy has reached out to the White House for a major disaster declaration. The damage is severe, with many residents unable to return home for at least 18 months.

In Kipnuk, assessments reveal that 90% of the homes are destroyed. Kwigillingok is also hard hit, with about one-third of its homes rendered uninhabitable. The area was impacted by the remnants of Typhoon Halong, which hit with hurricane-like intensity, causing a surge that inundated low-lying regions. Tragically, one person has died, and two are still missing.

Rescue teams are working hard to airlift residents from affected villages. Many are now sheltered in schools, larger communities, or have been flown to Anchorage, Alaska’s biggest city. City officials are bracing for up to 1,600 evacuees, with about 575 already airlifted. They are staying in places like a sports arena and a convention center while officials plan longer-term housing solutions.

Governor Dunleavy has stated that because of the harsh winter conditions, many people may not be able to return until spring. He emphasized that repairs are a priority, but some villages might not be livable during the winter.

Federal assistance is underway for search and rescue operations, and a major disaster declaration could unlock vital help for rebuilding efforts. Alaska’s congressional delegation is advocating for a quick approval to expedite this support.

The flooding also highlights the isolation of these small villages, typically accessible only by air or water. Residents rely heavily on hunting and fishing for food. As evacuees settle into life in Anchorage, they face a steep adjustment, navigating a vastly different lifestyle.

One evacuee, Alexie Stone from Kipnuk, is adapting to his new surroundings. He arrived in Anchorage with his family and plans to seek work at a grocery store. “It’s going to be about finding a job and a place to live,” he shared, reflecting on the challenges ahead.

Anchorage officials and the community are stepping up to support the evacuees. “We will do everything we can to help our neighbors in western Alaska,” said Mayor Suzanne LaFrance, acknowledging the tremendous loss experienced by the displaced.

State Rep. Nellie Unangiq Jimmie from Toksook Bay described her experience riding out the storm with her family. “We had to wait and see if our house would come off the foundation,” she said. While her home survived, others were not so lucky. She expressed gratitude for Anchorage’s welcoming attitude toward the evacuees.

The community’s response highlights a spirit of resilience among Alaskans, reminding everyone that even in crises, there’s strength in solidarity. For more on recovery efforts in disaster-stricken areas, you can visit the FEMA website.

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Mike Dunleavy, Donald Trump, Alaska, Anchorage, General news, AK State Wire, WA State Wire, Washington, Hurricanes and typhoons, Suzanne LaFrance, Politics, U.S. news