One of Alaska’s largest airlifts was underway Wednesday, moving hundreds from coastal villages hammered by high surf and wind from Typhoon Halong’s remnants. Record water levels swamped Kipnuk and Kwigillingok—more than six feet above the highest tide—washing away homes; one person was rescued and two remain missing after a house was swept to sea. About 1,500 people crowded makeshift shelters, with 300 evacuees flown to Anchorage and received at the Alaska Airlines Center. Given the remoteness, rescuers pivoted from rooftop rescues to restoring essentials, as officials warned some homes are unlivable and shelters near Bethel are reaching capacity.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.