Alaska Faces Urgent Recovery Challenges After Typhoon Halong Devastation

Tue Oct 28 2025 09:10:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the aftermath of Typhoon Halong, Alaska's Yup'ik communities are grappling with extreme damage as hundreds are evacuated and winter approaches. Officials and local organizations mobilize efforts to address urgent infrastructure needs and support displaced residents.

After the remnants of Typhoon Halong caused catastrophic flooding in western Alaska, extensive damage was reported particularly in the villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. With many structures destroyed and critical infrastructure compromised, community leaders are urgent in their call for assistance as winter approaches. Evacuated residents now find shelter in Anchorage while state officials work to ensure emergency repairs and recovery efforts are coordinated effectively.

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The mass evacuation by military aircraft of hundreds of residents from Alaska villages ravaged by the remnants of Typhoon Halong is complete, and officials and local leaders are turning attention to trying to stabilize damaged infrastructure and housing where they can before the winter freeze sets in.

The focus of major response efforts following back-to-back storms that battered western Alaska has been the Yup’ik communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, which are near the Bering Sea and have histories of flooding. While more than a dozen communities reported damage from the remnants of Halong earlier this month, Kipnuk and Kwigillingok were devastated by storm surge and water levels that reached record highs.

Homes were swept away, some with people inside. Winds in the region shook and tossed buildings like toys. First responders recounted rescuing people from rooftops. One person died, and two remain missing.

Initial estimates suggest 90% of buildings were destroyed in Kipnuk, with the fresh water supply seemingly contaminated by fuel and sewage, according to a report released Monday by Alaska’s emergency management division. About 35% of buildings in Kwigillingok were destroyed, the report states.

The Alaska Federation of Natives is advocating for ongoing assistance in the region, emphasizing the need for substantial, urgent investments in permanent infrastructure and protective measures to better prepare for future disasters.

Meanwhile, in Anchorage, 65 displaced students have begun classes, with schools providing emotional support and ensuring that the cultural needs of the students are met.

With winter fast approaching, state agencies are racing against time to assist in emergency home repairs and protect the vital infrastructure of affected communities.