SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski, along with Congressman Nick Begich, have called on President Donald Trump to approve a federal disaster declaration for Western Alaska. The request comes after severe storm damage from the remnants of Typhoon Halong impacted communities, especially in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region.

The delegation’s letter states: “While first responders, tribal and local governments, and State emergency management personnel have acted swiftly and effectively, the scale of this disaster surpasses the State’s ability and capacity to respond without federal support. With winter fast approaching, and transportation and broadband connectivity limited, there is an urgent need for federal aid to repair housing, restore utilities, and secure heating fuel before severe winter conditions set in.”

Governor Mike Dunleavy issued a state disaster declaration on October 9 and 12, which mobilized additional resources across Western Alaska. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is assisting with damage assessments and working alongside state agencies and tribal organizations to provide technical support.

The letter to President Trump details that winds over 100 miles per hour and record-high water levels caused significant destruction to homes, businesses, infrastructure, fuel storage facilities, runways, and utilities between October 9 and 13. It notes that some areas experienced devastation equal to or greater than what was seen during Typhoon Merbok in 2022.

The delegation further wrote: “We appreciate the ongoing coordination of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) with the State of Alaska on emergency and search- and-rescue operations, and we encourage your Administration to act quickly on the Governor’s request so that federal partners can deploy urgently needed personnel, equipment, and resources to affected areas without delay. In light of the extraordinary circumstances, and consistent with the action taken following Typhoon Merbok, we also request that the Administration authorize a 100 percent federal cost share for emergency work during this recovery.”

The lawmakers emphasized that quick federal action will be crucial as winter approaches so families can remain safe and communities can stabilize before harsh weather arrives.