Severe Flooding Hits Western Alaska

Western Alaska is currently facing significant flooding due to powerful wind gusts and heavy rainfall, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Halong continue to have an impact along the coast.

A strong coastal storm, spawned by the remnants of Furlong, made its way into the Bering Sea on Sunday. This resulted in hurricane-force wind gusts, massive waves, and severe coastal flooding in the Kuskokwim Delta and surrounding communities south of the Bering Strait.

Reports from the area indicate that flooding persists. Some residents in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region are reportedly either missing or trapped in their homes because of the high water levels.

High tides have contributed to the flooding over the past week. The Kotzebue Strait tide gauge recorded a level of 6.71 feet on Thursday, which is over five feet above normal and above the major flood stage.

Many communities in western Alaska are experiencing catastrophic flooding and storm damage from the remnants of Tropical Storm Halong. Areas ranging from Kipunuku and Kwigilingok to Konganaku are affected.

In response to the storm, the State Emergency Operations Center was activated in Alaska due to the extensive flooding. To assist with rescue efforts, the U.S. Coast Guard has deployed resources to Kwigiringok and Kipnuk. The American Red Cross has also responded to the damages in several villages, including Kipnuk, Kwigilingok, Kotzebue, Nome, and Betar.

On Sunday, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy declared a state disaster, expanding it to include Pribilof Island, Yupik, and the Lower Kuskokwim area education districts.

Parts of western Alaska recorded wind gusts reaching up to 100 mph, with sustained winds of around 90 mph.

Flooding from the remnants of Furlong is anticipated to continue into Monday, with a flood advisory in place for the Kuskokwim River through the morning, according to the National Weather Service.