Alaska's Urgent Recovery Efforts Following Typhoon Halong Disaster

Wed Oct 22 2025 05:08:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In the aftermath of Typhoon Halong, hundreds of residents from ravaged Alaska villages have been evacuated as urgent recovery efforts unfold, focusing on infrastructure stability and housing repairs ahead of winter.

Officials have completed the evacuation of hundreds of residents from Alaska's villages affected by Typhoon Halong. The focus shifts to restoring infrastructure and housing as winter approaches. Significant damage is reported, particularly in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, where homes were swept away by storm surges. The Alaska Federation of Natives calls for sustained investments in community resilience and infrastructure improvements to prevent future disasters.

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, as officials look to stabilize damaged infrastructure and housing before the winter freeze.

The Yup’ik communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, near the Bering Sea, have been particularly hard hit by flooding and record-high water levels due to successive storms. Reports indicate that over 90% of buildings were destroyed in Kipnuk and about 35% in Kwigillingok, with fresh water supplies apparently contaminated by fuel and sewage.

With houses swept away and at least one confirmed fatality and two missing persons, first responders have been working tirelessly to rescue impacted individuals, often from rooftops. Local emergency response teams are assessing the situation as winter looms.

The Alaska Federation of Natives is urging the state and federal governments to invest in long-term infrastructure solutions and ensure consistent federal presence in the region. In light of these ongoing recovery efforts, 65 displaced students have begun classes in Anchorage, where they will receive necessary support services.

“This transition carries both emotional and cultural weight. Our schools will be places of belonging, healing, and hope,” said Anchorage School District superintendent Jharrett Bryantt.

As community resilience becomes increasingly important, efforts are ramping up to deliver emergency supplies, repair homes, and provide necessary health care to the affected populations.