Severe Flooding Devastates Homes in Alaska

Massive floodwaters and gusts equivalent to hurricanes have wreaked havoc along the western coastline of Alaska, leading to entire homes being displaced from their original spots.

Emergency teams flew out to the small communities of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok amid concerns that about 20 individuals could not be located, according to Jeremy Zidek from the state's Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

"We've received unsettling news that homes have been swept away, with some people potentially inside," reported Zidek to the Associated Press.

State Response Mobilizes After Flooding

In Kipnuk, a community refuge provided shelter for over 170 individuals as floodwaters rose 6.6 feet past the usual high tide. Notably, at least eight houses were carried away by the torrent.

Communities such as Bethel, Napaskiak, and Napakiak suffered waterlogged roads, damaged power lines, and cluttered airport runways, a testament to the violent winds. These areas, characterized by their seclusion, often rely on unconventional transport like boardwalks and snowmobiles.

Governor Mike Dunleavy reassured the public, stating, "Help is on the way." He extended the state's emergency declaration to encompass the newly impacted regions, initially declared due to a previous storm.

Mobilization of State Forces

Several agencies, exceeding a dozen, have banded together in the relief efforts, including the involvement of the Alaska National Guard and other military components. A deployment of up to 60 personnel has been proposed to bolster the response to affected areas.