KUSKOKWIM DELTA COAST AND NUNIVAK ISLAND — * WHAT...Coastal flooding, with water levels of 1 to 2.5 feet above the normal highest tide line, and 30 to 40 mph southwest winds with gusts up to 40 to 55 mph.
* WHERE...Kuskokwim Delta Coast, including Kipnuk, Kwigillingok and Kongiganak.
* WHEN...Until 10 AM AKDT Wednesday, highest water levels expected during each upcoming high tide through Wednesday morning.
* IMPACTS...Coastal flooding of low lying areas and erosion are possible.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Steady south to southwesterly flow is expected to continue for the Kuskokwim Delta coastline through Wednesday morning as a series of low pressure systems track across the Bering Sea. Coastal erosion and minor coastal flooding will be possible with each upcoming high tide due to the persistent onshore winds, during which maximum water levels will reach between 1 and 2.5 ft above the normal highest tide line, including in and around Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. The strong winds may reduce the ability for flood waters to recede during and close to low tide, possibly leading to prolonged higher than normal water levels along the coast and near the mouth of the Kuskokwim River. There will be a break in strong winds between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning, however, we are monitoring the potential for another strong storm system that could cause additional coastal impacts towards the end of this week.
Flooding in Kuskokwim Delta Coast and Nunivak Island can cut off roads with little warning, damage homes near low-lying areas, and disrupt power and water service. Even a few inches of moving water can carry away a vehicle.
This report is based on information from NWS, monitored by Alert USA's verified emergency feed.
Alert USA anticipates a high chance of travel disruptions, elevated property risk in low-lying areas, and possible power outages while the event is active.
Recommended steps: avoid flooded roads — turn around, don't drown; move to higher ground if you are in a low-lying area; charge phones and prepare for power loss; check on family and neighbors.
Alert USA is tracking this flood event and will update this report as verified information becomes available.
Verified by Alert USA • NWS