In a dramatic incident captured on video, a house was filmed drifting out to sea in Kipnuk, Alaska, as the remnants of Typhoon Halong struck over the weekend, resulting in one death, two missing persons, and the rescue of two dozen individuals from floating homes. The event highlights the severe impact of the storm, which brought hurricane-force winds and caused widespread displacement in the region.
The incident occurred on October 12, 2025, when Typhoon Halong, after crossing the Pacific Ocean, unleashed powerful winds and storm surges that dislodged several houses from their foundations in the coastal community of Kipnuk. Video footage shared by local resident Brea Paul shows one home slowly floating away, a surreal scene that quickly gained attention online. The storm’s intensity caught many off guard, as such tropical systems rarely affect Alaska with this level of force.
In response, the U.S. Coast Guard launched urgent rescue operations, saving 24 people from homes that had drifted into the ocean. Approximately 1,300 residents were displaced due to the storm, with many seeking shelter in emergency centers set up by local authorities. The scale of the displacement underscores the vulnerability of coastal areas to extreme weather events and the immediate need for coordinated relief efforts.
Eyewitness Brea Paul described witnessing around 20 houses floating away overnight, with some occupants signaling for help by blinking their phone lights. However, rescue teams faced significant challenges due to the dangerous conditions, including high winds and rough seas, which hampered immediate assistance. This account paints a vivid picture of the desperation and risks faced by those trapped in the storm’s path.
Typhoon Halong’s arrival in Alaska is notable for its rarity, as the state seldom experiences such intense tropical storms. Meteorologists noted that the system maintained strength across the Pacific, bringing unprecedented winds and flooding to the region. This event aligns with broader trends of more frequent and severe weather phenomena, potentially linked to climate change, raising concerns about future preparedness.
The human toll includes one confirmed fatality and two individuals still missing as search and rescue operations continue. Emergency services are working tirelessly to locate the missing and assess the full extent of the damage in affected communities. The aftermath has left residents grappling with loss and disruption, highlighting the need for robust support systems in disaster scenarios.
Looking ahead, this incident prompts reflections on coastal resilience and disaster preparedness. Authorities are likely to review emergency response plans and infrastructure safeguards to mitigate future risks. Residents are urged to stay informed about weather warnings, as events like this underscore the increasing unpredictability of natural disasters in a changing climate.