President Donald Trump granted the State of Alaska’s request for a federal disaster declaration on Oct. 22, unlocking federal aid to support the ongoing relief and recovery effort in the aftermath of ex-Typhoon Halong throughout Western Alaska.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy formally submitted the request on Oct. 16.
“This declaration will be instrumental for ongoing response and recovery efforts. I want to thank President Trump and his administration for the continued support of Alaska and providing help for Alaska during this time of need,” Dunleavy said on Facebook.
The declaration authorizes a 100% cost-share for relief assistance for the next 90 days, through January, according to a statement from the governor’s office. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will coordinate with the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management on all recovery operations and programs.
Trump said he also authorized an immediate $25 million in relief funding, to cover costs as the state continues to conduct damage assessments.
The disaster declaration request covered the Northwest Arctic Borough, Lower Yukon Regional Education Attendance Area and the Lower Kuskokwim Regional Attendance Area, places hit by the remnants of Typhoon Halong.
More than 1,500 residents were displaced by the storm that killed one woman and left two missing in Kwigillingok.
The storm recovery effort is in full swing. Local residents are working on clean up, while regional tribal partners and dozens of state agencies, nonprofit and relief organizations provide support to the region, particularly the hardest hit area of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta.
State and tribal agencies are flying aid into those residents who remain in the coastal villages, including food, water and fuel, while crews continue to work on debris removal, fuel spills, infrastructure assessment and repair to water, power, and sewer systems, roads and boardwalks.
Crews are working throughout communities to repair homes where possible, so that local residents can return before winter sets in.
There is no cost estimate for the storm damage at this time, according to Jeremy Zidek, a spokesperson for the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, because agencies are working to restore services simultaneously.
The state is offering emergency assistance, available through an application on the state’s website, open through Dec. 9.
The program provides financial assistance for storm damage to homes, vehicles, essential personal property, medical, dental or funeral needs directly related to the disaster. Applicants will be eligible for up to $21,250 for home repairs and another $21,250 for other needs.
The president has not yet authorized federal individual assistance — up to $42,500 for home repairs and $42,500 for other items — but state officials say there will likely be more information from the Trump administration in the coming days.
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