Mass Evacuations in Western Alaska Following Typhoon Halong's Devastation

In mid-October 2025, the remnants of Typhoon Halong struck the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta in southwestern Alaska, leading to one of the most significant airlifts in the state's history. The storm caused catastrophic damage to the villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, displacing over 1,500 residents and rendering most homes uninhabitable. As a result, authorities initiated mass evacuations, with many residents seeking shelter in makeshift facilities.

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Kipnuk, a Yup’ik community with a population of approximately 715, and Kwigillingok, with around 380 residents, were the hardest hit. The storm brought record storm surges, with Kipnuk experiencing a surge of 6.6 feet, significantly above previous records. Reports indicated that nearly all homes in both villages were damaged, with some structures floating away during the storm. Tragically, one person was confirmed dead, and two others remain missing from Kwigillingok, where a house was swept away by floodwaters.

Anchorage Daily News

As conditions deteriorated, local leaders requested state support for full evacuations. The Alaska National Guard played a crucial role in the evacuation, utilizing helicopters and military transport planes to relocate residents. By October 15, approximately 300 evacuees had been flown to Anchorage, where shelters were established at the University of Alaska Anchorage and other facilities. Evacuees faced challenges, including limited access to basic necessities and the emotional toll of leaving their homes and communities behind.

Historic Mass Evacuation Airlifts Hundreds from Storm-Ravaged Western Alaska VillagesKSKA - NPR - AnchorageCNNABC NewsAnchorage Daily NewsThe Guardian

Mark Roberts, an incident commander with the state emergency management division, described the situation as "catastrophic" in Kipnuk, emphasizing the urgency of the response. He stated, "We are doing everything we can to continue to support that community, but it is as bad as you can think." Meanwhile, Buggy Carl, a tribal administrator in Kipnuk, highlighted the reluctance of some residents to leave, stating, “I know their mindset, that their heart is here. They don't know anywhere else to go.”

KSKA - NPR - Anchorage

The storm's aftermath has drawn attention to previous federal funding cuts that may have hindered disaster preparedness in these vulnerable communities. Environmental groups have criticized the termination of a $20 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency aimed at helping Kipnuk prepare for such disasters. This has raised concerns about the long-term resilience of Indigenous communities in Alaska facing climate change.

CNN

While the Alaska National Guard reported evacuating 300 individuals, other sources indicated that the total number of displaced residents could exceed 1,500. Additionally, the exact number of evacuees from each community remains unclear, as many residents expressed a desire to stay with family in less-damaged areas.

Historic Mass Evacuation Airlifts Hundreds from Storm-Ravaged Western Alaska Villages

As recovery efforts continue, officials are preparing for the possibility of another storm approaching the region. Plans are being developed to provide long-term shelter for evacuees and to restore livable conditions in less-damaged homes before winter sets in. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of the needs of displaced residents and the challenges of rebuilding in the wake of Typhoon Halong.

Historic Mass Evacuation Airlifts Hundreds from Storm-Ravaged Western Alaska Villages

• “It’s catastrophic in Kipnuk. Let’s not paint any other picture,” — Mark Roberts, Incident Commander

The Guardian

• “It was shaking. The house was shaking,” — Steven Anaver, Kwigillingok Resident

KUBD - Ketchikan