Typhoon Halong Displaces 1,500 in Alaska, Rescue Efforts Underway

First responders in Alaska have initiated extensive rescue operations following the devastating impact of Typhoon Halong, which struck the region over the weekend. The storm has displaced more than 1,500 people, particularly affecting two villages along the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta in southwest Alaska. High winds and storm surges swept away homes in low-lying communities, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.

As of Tuesday evening, officials confirmed that at least one person, 67-year-old Ella Mae Kashatok, was found deceased. Her body is set to be transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy. Additionally, two individuals remain unaccounted for in Kwigillingok, prompting ongoing concerns among local officials and families.

Rescue Operations and Shelter Challenges

The U.S. Coast Guard has reported rescuing around 51 individuals and two dogs from the affected areas, including Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. Many of those rescued were transported to shelters, with hundreds currently housed in local schools. Some facilities, however, lack basic amenities such as working toilets, raising concerns about living conditions for evacuees.

Emergency management officials are rapidly working to provide adequate shelter. Many displaced residents have been flown to a newly established shelter at the National Guard armory in Bethel. Plans are underway to potentially relocate evacuees to longer-term accommodations in Fairbanks and Anchorage, as the region braces for additional rain and wind later this week.

Severe Impact on Local Communities

The situation in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok has been described as “absolute devastation” by Capt. Christopher Culpepper of the U.S. Coast Guard. “Preservation of life is our top priority,” he stated, emphasizing the critical role of combined rescue and response operations involving the Coast Guard, Alaska State Troopers, and the National Guard.

Mark Roberts, incident commander with the state emergency management division, expressed the dire conditions facing Kipnuk, which has a population of 715, and Kwigillingok, home to 380 residents. “It’s catastrophic in Kipnuk. Let’s not paint any other picture,” he said during a press conference on Tuesday.

The remote locations of these villages pose additional challenges, as they are accessible only by water or air during this time of year. As weather conditions continue to evolve, officials are preparing for a long recovery process, particularly in the hardest-hit areas.

“Our hearts are with the residents of both Kwigillingok and Kipnuk during this difficult time,” said Bob Little, the commander of the Coast Guard Arctic District. He praised the efforts of volunteers and first responders who have played a crucial role in the rescue operations.

As recovery efforts continue, state and federal agencies remain committed to supporting the affected communities. The ongoing situation underscores the vulnerability of remote regions to severe weather events and the importance of coordinated emergency response.