The remnants of Typhoon Halong unleashed powerful storms on western Alaska, resulting in extreme flooding and chaos on October 12. One resident, Steven Anaver, experienced a terrifying ordeal as his home was uprooted and carried across turbulent waters, while he was still inside.
Severe Weather Impact in Alaska
The storms brought record-high water levels and intense winds, leading to extensive damage in several small communities. Over 2,000 residents were displaced, necessitating one of the largest airlift operations in Alaska’s history. Sadly, the violent weather resulted in at least one confirmed death and left two individuals missing.
Life-Threatening Situation
As the storm intensified that Saturday night in Kwigillingok, a Yup’ik community, Anaver quickly noticed the rising floodwaters. By 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, the water level surged to his knees in just 10 minutes.
- Home began to float away from its foundation.
- Anaver documented his frightening experience through videos.
- Furniture and personal belongings were seen floating around him.
Survival Amidst Chaos
The wind howled, and loud crashes echoed as his home collided with other structures. Anaver shared his anxiety and fear with family members during this terrifying time. He later described how the moonlight helped him confirm his location as he drifted approximately one mile from his original home.
Eventually, just after 7 a.m., the waters receded enough for two neighbors to assist Anaver out of his floating home. In a video shared three days later on Facebook, he reflected on his narrow escape, stating, “I was inches away from death.”
Conclusion
The storms from Typhoon Halong have left a lasting impact on the communities of western Alaska. Residents like Anaver highlight the challenges faced during extreme weather events. Their stories emphasize the ongoing struggle and resilience in the face of nature’s fury.
