Alaska State News

This summer, Patrick Andrew’s family returned to the coastal village of Kipnuk while he and his wife worked as part of the community’s rebuild in the wake of ex-typhoon Halong.

Just days before ex-typhoon Halong, Marie White traveled from Bethel to her hometown of Kwigillingok to celebrate her 67th birthday among her daughters and grandchildren. This year, the whole family is back together in Bethel, with little idea when they may be able to return home.

Over the past year, Kipnuk residents and contractors have been working to repair the storm-battered village. Crews on the ground say it’s a physical — and emotional — investment, even as the long-term future of the community remains in question.

In October 2025, daily life in dozens of Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta communities was suddenly interrupted when the remnants of Typhoon Halong slammed into the coast. Over the past year, the crisis has shined a light on what is still missing from disaster response, and what tribal communities need to protect a way of life bound to the land.

The agency says assistance may still be available for many disaster-related needs, and that some applicants may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation to appeal decisions they received by mail.

Across the U.S, communities held events for “9-2-5 Day” on Sept. 25, celebrating the legacy of country singer Dolly Parton who passed away last month. The Kuskokwim Consortium Library hosted a celebration to raise money to continue Parton’s literary legacy.

First responders said that a snowcat machine was found ablaze on the evening of Sept. 28, and that the flames did not spread and no injuries were reported.

Smith stepped in as interim president and CEO of the corporation in April, when Dan Winkelman stepped down from his role after 12 years. Now she has been formally appointed to the role.

In 2025, a federal court judge required the proposed Donlin Gold mine project to reexamine some of its possible environmental impacts. This week, a draft of that supplemental report was released for public comment.

Rental assistance may still be available for people who have not yet applied. Those who have already received rental funds from FEMA and need continued help can apply for the agency’s Continued Temporary Housing Assistance.