Alaska National Guard photos by Staff Sgt. Joseph Moon, Task Force Bethel/Facebook
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | October 2025
1. Coast Guard and Volunteers Evacuate Pets from Western Alaska
In the wake of Typhoon Halong, the U.S. Coast Guard, Alaska National Guard, and local volunteers have been instrumental in rescuing pets from flooded communities in western Alaska. In Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, evacuees were seen boarding helicopters with their dogs, while others were left behind to be rescued later. The Coast Guard and Alaska Army National Guard have been actively involved in these operations, ensuring the safety of both residents and their pets. Additionally, volunteers from organizations like Bethel Friends of Canines have been rescuing stranded animals, including a turtle, and transporting them to safety. The American Red Cross has been supporting these efforts by providing shelter and care for both evacuees and their pets. American Red Cross
2. Federal Disaster Declaration for Alaska
President Donald J. Trump has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Alaska (DR-4893-AK) due to severe storms, flooding, and the remnants of Typhoon Halong from October 8–13, 2025. This declaration makes federal assistance available to state, tribal, and local governments, as well as eligible private individuals and households in the affected areas. The disaster has impacted 49 communities, with over 1,400 residents sheltering in 12 shelters. Governor Mike Dunleavy has amended the initial disaster declaration to include all areas impacted by the storm, including the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta and other western Alaska coastal areas. American Red Cross
3. Public Scoping Meeting on Insurance Life & Health Regulations
The Alaska Division of Insurance is hosting a public scoping meeting to gather input on potential changes to insurance life and health regulations. The meeting is scheduled for today, October 28, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. AST, and will be held at the Atwood Building in Anchorage and the State Office Building in Juneau, with virtual access available. American Red Cross
4. Presentation on Alaska’s Transportation Workforce
The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF), in partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Institute of Social and Economic Research (ISER), is hosting a presentation titled “Alaska’s Transportation Workforce Detours: Maximizing Training Opportunities and Outcomes in DOT&PF’s Key Industries.” The presentation is scheduled for today, October 28, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. AKST, and will be held virtually via Zoom. American Red Cross
5. Virtual Public Scoping Meeting for Cold Bay AMHS Ferry Terminal Reconstruction
The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities is hosting a virtual public scoping meeting for the Cold Bay AMHS Ferry Terminal Reconstruction project. The meeting is scheduled for today, October 28, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. AKST. The project aims to gather public input and feedback at this early stage. American Red Cross
6. FAST Planning 2025 Winter Maintenance Forum
FAST Planning is hosting a Winter Maintenance Forum to discuss strategies and plans for the upcoming winter season. The forum is scheduled for today, October 28, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. AKST, and will be held in Fairbanks. FAST Planning
7. Sitka Halibut Point Road & Peterson Ave Intersection Safety Project
The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities has announced an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for the Sitka Halibut Point Road & Peterson Ave Intersection Safety Project. The bid is due today, October 28, 2025, and the project aims to enhance safety at this critical intersection. State of Alaska
10. American Red Cross of Alaska Urgently Needs Volunteers
The American Red Cross of Alaska is urgently seeking volunteers to assist with disaster response efforts, especially in light of the recent Typhoon Halong. Volunteers are needed for various roles, including shelter support, disaster response, and community education. To become a volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer to complete the application process. For more information, contact volunteeralaska@redcross.org or call 907-201-2887.
