SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, along with Congressman Nick Begich, expressed their gratitude to President Donald Trump for approving a federal disaster declaration following the damage caused by the remnants of Typhoon Halong in Western Alaska. The declaration comes after Governor Mike Dunleavy requested federal assistance due to significant destruction, especially in the Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta region.

President Trump also announced an initial allocation of $25 million in disaster relief funds to address immediate recovery needs while state authorities continue assessing damages and costs. Additional federal relief funding is expected as assessments progress.

With this declaration, federal agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will be able to send more resources to support local recovery and rebuilding operations. The announcement follows a letter from Alaska’s congressional delegation urging quick federal action and recognizing the efforts of first responders, tribal governments, and state emergency personnel.

“I raised Alaska’s disaster declaration directly with President Trump yesterday at the White House and thank him for quickly approving it to ensure impacted western communities have federal support in the wake of Typhoon Halong,” said Senator Murkowski. “I also appreciate FEMA’s expedited review of this request, which is one of the quickest federal responses in recent years. To all Alaskans impacted, please know that your congressional delegation, state, and nation stand united and will continue to coordinate recovery efforts as you move forward.”

Senator Sullivan added: “I want to sincerely thank President Trump for promptly approving the Governor’s request for a federal disaster declaration. Yesterday, I spoke directly with the President about the devastating situation across Western Alaska and this Emergency Declaration. This swift approval means critical federal resources can now begin flowing to communities across the Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta that were hit hard by Typhoon Halong’s remnants. Thousands of Alaskans have lost homes, businesses, personal property, and essential infrastructure—fuel storage sites, runways, and utilities—as winter approaches. I plan on being in Western Alaska this weekend with top FEMA and DHS officials, and my team and I will continue working closely with the Trump administration and our state, local, and tribal partners to make sure these incredible Alaskans get the help they need to recover and return to their communities.”

Congressman Begich stated: “President Trump’s swift approval of the disaster declaration will bring critical federal resources to families and communities across Western Alaska and ensure that federal resources will be deployed quickly to help these families restore their homes and repair vital infrastructure. When I visited Western Alaska last month, I witnessed firsthand the strength and resiliency of Alaskans in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region. I’m grateful for the strong partnership among our federal, state, and local teams to assist those in need. Our focus as a delegation remains on ensuring every Alaskan family impacted by this storm receives the resources and support needed throughout the long process of rebuilding their lives.”