Trump Approves $25M Disaster Aid for Western Alaska Storm Recovery

President Donald Trump approved a $25 million federal disaster declaration to aid recovery efforts in Western Alaska following the devastating impact of Typhoon Halong and other severe storms. The financial assistance, authorized after Governor Mike Dunleavy's request, supports recovery, reconstruction, unemployment relief, and disaster loans for small businesses. The storms caused extensive damage, particularly in the Yup'ik villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, where a significant percentage of buildings were destroyed and around 2,000 residents were displaced. Anchorage has been accommodating evacuees in shelters, incurring substantial costs that are expected to be reimbursed through federal aid. The federal disaster declaration also authorizes a 100% cost share for relief efforts over the next 90 days, signaling a coordinated response between state and federal agencies. Both Trump and Dunleavy expressed commitment to supporting Alaskans affected by this historic storm, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration to rebuild the communities.