In the Wake of Typhoon Halong: T3 Alaska Supports Students and Communities

When Typhoon Halong swept through Alaska’s western and coastal regions, it left a path of destruction across several communities with T3 Alaska clubs — including Kipnuk, Bethel, Sitka, Kotzebue, Chevak, and Quinhagak.

As soon as news of the storm reached T3 Alaska’s team, staff members began reaching out to partner sites, offering assistance and guidance in navigating available relief resources. “Our first priority was checking in with our students and mentors to make sure everyone was safe,” said Adam Low, T3 Alaska program director. “Then we worked to figure out how we could help — whether that meant connecting them with resources or keeping programming going so students could have a sense of normalcy.”

For the community of Kipnuk, the storm’s toll was especially heavy. Most of the village’s housing infrastructure was destroyed, forcing families and students to relocate. In support, Kusilvak Career Academy, T3 Alliance’s Anchorage hub site, stepped forward to welcome Kipnuk’s displaced T3 students and teachers for the duration of the school year. Other T3-affiliated boarding schools, including Mount Edgecumbe High School, have also extended similar offers, ensuring that students can continue their education and stay connected while their communities recover.

The storm’s aftermath created a need for local help. One of T3 Alaska’s goals is to provide pathways for students to help their communities.  Bryan Jones (pictured right), a T3 Alaska graduate from Quinhagak, is using the skills he started through the program to support recovery efforts in his region. Jones discovered his interest in drones while participating in the T3 program. Now, Jones uses drone imagery and mapping work to help local organizations assess damage, which will be used to plan rebuilding efforts safely and efficiently.

As communities continue to recover from Typhoon Halong, T3 Alaska remains committed to walking beside them — providing programming, support, and connection. In times of hardship, the network of students, mentors, and partners that make up T3 Alaska proves that resilience is not just about rebuilding structures — it’s about strengthening relationships, fostering innovation, and carrying one another forward.