Severe Flooding Devastates Remote Alaska Communities Following Typhoon Halong

Mon Oct 20 2025 23:21:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Over 2,000 residents are displaced from their homes in western Alaska as Typhoon Halong causes unprecedented flooding. Initial assessments reveal substantial damage, with many unable to return for at least 18 months.

A major flooding event in remote Alaska, triggered by remnants of Typhoon Halong, has resulted in the displacement of over 2,000 residents and destruction of numerous homes. Governor Mike Dunleavy has requested a disaster declaration from the White House, stating that recovery efforts will take a minimum of 18 months. Communities are scrambling to aid evacuees, with military support and shelters being arranged in Anchorage.

Anchorage, Alaska (PulseWire News) — Severe damage to several remote villages in Alaska due to flooding caused by Typhoon Halong has left over 2,000 residents displaced, with Governor Mike Dunleavy stating they may not return for at least 18 months. In Kipnuk, roughly 90% of the homes were destroyed, with Kwigillingok seeing a significant portion of houses lost to the floodwaters.

The hurricane-force winds and high surf resulted in a situation akin to a Category 2 hurricane, leading to a tragic toll: one lost life, two individuals still missing, and many rescued from floating homes. As rescue efforts continue, officials report that many individuals have taken refuge in community centers or have been airlifted to Anchorage.

With expected arrivals of up to 1,600 evacuees, locals have welcomed those displaced, providing shelter in sports facilities and assessing the needs of the affected residents. The government and local agencies are working on providing temporary accommodations and long-term housing solutions.

Due to geographical challenges and severe weather conditions, many survivors may find it infeasible to return before the harsh winter, prompting efforts for a disaster declaration from federal authorities which could facilitate emergency assistance and support for reconstruction.

Evacuated residents such as Alexie Stone are now adapting to life in Anchorage, facing the reality of rebuilding their lives away from their traditional homes. Local leadership, including Anchorage mayor Suzanne LaFrance, has emphasized the community’s solidarity in these trying times, pledging to assist evacuees as they transition into a new chapter.

As recovery efforts are prioritized, potential federal aid could significantly bolster local resources and support systems to address the impact of this natural disaster, a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by Alaskan communities.