Alaska Storm Response: Homes Damaged, Air Rescues Underway in Western Villages

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Red emergency lights on an ambulance of the New South Wales Ambulance Service parked in Oxford Street, Bondi Junction, Sydney. Behind the lights are a spotlight and antenna. This image was taken on a sunny morning on 11 December 2023.
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Anchorage, AK – Alaska State Troopers are coordinating a large-scale search and rescue operation Sunday following a powerful storm that slammed into multiple Western Alaska coastal communities over the past 24 hours.

According to the Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Air National Guard, Alaska Army National Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard have all deployed rescue aircraft to Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. The mission aims to locate and assist residents who may be missing or displaced after severe overnight flooding.

Both villages experienced intense winds and heavy rain that caused significant damage, including at least eight homes being pushed from their foundations. Authorities say floodwaters have disrupted roads and power in the area, complicating ongoing recovery efforts.

Troopers urged anyone in need of immediate assistance to contact the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center at 907-551-7230.

“This is an active and ongoing search and rescue mission,” officials said in a Sunday afternoon update. “Additional details will be provided when more information is available.”

Residents and community members have taken to social media to express gratitude toward first responders and share prayers for those affected by the flooding.

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