Devastation in Alaska prompts thousands of evacuations

Disaster Overview - A massive storm struck Alaska, leading to a large-scale airlift operation to evacuate residents from low-lying villages [1] - The storm, triggered by remnants of a typhoon, caused widespread destruction and resulted in at least one fatality and missing persons [2] - Some communities, like Kipnook, experienced water levels rising over 6 feet (approximately 183 centimeters) above normal high tide, leading to near wipeout [2] Impact on Communities - Many homes were swept away or taken off their foundations, with some floating down the river with people inside [3] - Approximately 2,000 displaced residents overwhelmed makeshift shelters in remote communities, necessitating urgent evacuation [4] Relief Efforts - The National Guard is airlifting evacuees to Anchorage, where a large shelter has been set up to accommodate upwards of 1,400 people [4] - The Red Cross anticipates evacuations will continue for several more days [5] - Officials are characterizing this as a prolonged relief operation that could last for months due to the severe destruction and limited accessibility of the affected towns [5]