National Guard Airlifts Thousands to Safety After Devastating Alaska Floods
One of the most significant airlifts in Alaska history is underway as the National Guard races to evacuate hundreds of residents from coastal villages devastated by high surf and strong winds from the remnants of Typhoon Halong. The storm, which struck last weekend, has left at least one person dead and two others missing, officials confirmed. Video and photos released by the Alaska National Guard show huddled flood victims being airlifted on C-17 cargo planes from the regional hub city of Bethel to Anchorage. Bethel has served as a main shelter and staging area for recovery efforts, while Chinook helicopters have been deployed to deliver water and other key supplies to hard-hit communities like Kipnuk.nnAlaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has signed an application for a Presidential Disaster Declaration, asking President Donald Trump to “declare a major disaster for Alaska” as a result of this storm. The request underscores the severity of the flooding, which has overwhelmed local infrastructure. According to the Coastal Villages Region Fund (CVRF), power remains an issue in some communities, complicating recovery efforts. Officials noted that the main challenges include removing wet insulation and pumping water out of flooded houses. The storm’s impact is reminiscent of the major flooding Alaska experienced in 2023 when a glacier lake outburst occurred on the Mendenhall Glacier, about 12 miles north of Juneau, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.nnOn Wednesday, President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Alaska, paving the way for FEMA to begin coordinating longer-term recovery with the governor’s office and the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Photos from the Division of Homeland Security showed water and supplies being flown to Kipnuk by Chinook helicopters, illustrating the massive logistical operation. The airlift, described as one of the most significant in the state’s history, reflects the urgent need to move residents to safety and provide essential aid. As recovery efforts continue, officials are focused on addressing immediate needs while planning for the long road ahead.nnThe combination of federal support, state coordination, and National Guard resources has been crucial in responding to this disaster. With winter approaching, the race is on to ensure that affected communities have access to power, shelter, and supplies. The resilience of Alaskans is being tested once again, but the swift action of the
Shimanta Das 
