Trump Sanctions $25M for Alaska After Storm Wreaks Havoc

President Trump approved $25 million in disaster aid for Alaska following back-to-back storms that severely damaged Yup’ik villages, resulting in a significant evacuation effort. The aid will support recovery, reconstruction, and unemployment assistance. Many evacuees have been airlifted to Anchorage, which is providing temporary shelter and incurring related costs.

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he is authorizing $25 million in disaster aid for Alaska. This decision follows two severe storms, which included the remnants of a typhoon, causing immense damage to coastal villages and one of the largest evacuation operations in state history.

The financial aid, discussed with Republican Governor Mike Dunleavy, aims to bolster recovery efforts. Dunleavy had previously sought a significant disaster declaration in light of the catastrophic effects of the storms earlier this month. This declaration from Trump enables federal support for recovery, reconstruction, unemployment relief, and small business disaster loans.

While the full extent of damage is under assessment, significant destruction has been reported in the Yup'ik villages of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok due to record-high water levels following Typhoon Halong's storm surge. Anchorage is facing expenses to provide shelter for evacuees, using facilities like a convention center and a university sports arena while anticipating state and federal reimbursement.

(With inputs from agencies.)