Location: Coastal and extended storm impact area. National Weather Service (NWS), NOAA updates are available at: http://www.weather.gov/afc/
Description: This project includes observations about storm events in Alaska. Observations are used for impact assessment and planning. ANTHC Emergency Preparedness staff will communicate information from observers to the state emergency operations staff, as needed. Please note: LEO Network is not an emergency reporting system. Members should use standard emergency reporting procedures and systems as need requires.
Caution: Please be careful and do not put yourself in harm’s way to gather information.
Observing Guidance: Please provide photos and descriptions of storm conditions where you live, as well as local impacts including on critical infrastructure (transportation, clinics, power, water/waste, communication, community shelters, schools) and homes as well as the environment (shoreline erosion). Before and after photos taken from the same vantage point can be very helpful to document events.
Observing in Coastal Areas: Observers can post images and text descriptions or video of the storm surge, high ice or high water line after the storm. Measurements of water extent and height are also important. LEO will share results with state officials and connect observers with technical advisors.
December 2016 Storm Updates: The SEOC is working with communities in western Alaska to collect information on damages that may have occurred during the storm this weekend. 01-03-17
Resources
The State of Alaska, Department of Military and Veteran Affairs Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHS&EM) is the entity responsible for providing support to communities to plan for, respond to and recover from disasters. DHS&EM has developed many tools to assist communities in their effort to prepare for disasters. See more information below in the Resources section.
Please see above link to the NWS, NOAA for weather updates.
Alaska Emergency Response Guide for Small Communities: The Alaska Emergency Response Guide for Small Communities is a planning tool for local government leaders as they prepare for, respond to, and recover from a disaster or emergency in their community. The guide will help "bridge the gap" until a local Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is developed as required by Alaska Statute Section 26.23.060 (e).
Small Community Emergency Response Plan: The Small Community Emergency Response Plan (SCERP) is an exciting approach to emergency management for small communities. SCERP is a customized flip book with essential, community-specific information for responding to a disaster. For additional information or questions please call DHS&EM SCERP Planning Team toll-free at 1-800-478-2337 or 1-907-428-7000. As a reminder, planning really is a cyclical process.
Response:
The State Emergency Operation Center is housed within DHS&EM and provides statewide coordination during a response and is available 24/7. We advocate for calling early and calling often. If you have a concern related to disaster it is always recommended to call the SEOC and share the information.
online training opportunities, through FEMA, to learn more about the Incident Command System. DHS&EM also manages a statewide training calendar to watch for upcoming trainings.
ANTHC also is committed to supporting public health preparedness efforts in communities. We provide technical assistance and act as liaisons to support communities and the Alaska Tribal Health System to prepare for and respond to disasters. You can learn more about our program through our website."
Link resources:
Media:
The Nome Nugget – New Year's Storm Pummels Bering Strait, St. Lawrence Island, "A series of low pressure systems swept through western and northwestern Alaska beginning December 28 until things calmed down on January 2, leaving sections of villages without power and communication lines, some homes damaged and runway lights knocked out. As of this writing on January 3, the picture of damage is still incomplete and not all communities could be reached by phone. St. Lawrence Island seemed to have been hit the hardest with high winds that hammered the island. According to Gambell resident Debbie Apatiki, there is no sea ice in front of Gambell and stormy seas and big waves crashed across the community’s runway, taking out the airport lights." By Diana Haecker, TNN - Nome (2017-01-06)
Alaska Public Media – Savoonga, Gambell fare differently in weekend storms, "2016 ended with a Bering Sea storm that brought snow, ocean surges, and strong winds to many communities in Western Alaska. St. Lawrence Island was at risk of coastal flooding from the storm, but according to a City employee in Gambell, both communities on the island did not experience the same amount of damage. The Mayor of Gambell, said residents were ready for the storm. In the community of Savoonga, phone lines are currently down (as of mid-day Tuesday, Jan. 3), and KNOM was unable to make contact with the City Office. Mayor Siloop reported that roofs of buildings in Savoonga were blown off and debris was swept through the community by intense winds gusting up to 75 mph at times." By Davis Hovey, KNOM - Nome (2017-01-03)
DHESM Daily Situation Report 01-03-17
DHSEM Daily Situation Report 12-30-16
Observations From Members