Alaska Department Of Public Safety,State Troopers Public Information Office

Dispatch Text:

UPDATE: On October 23, 2024, as the closest resource available, Red Dog Mine, operated by Teck Alaska Inc., responded with an ASTAR helicopter from Pathfinder Aviation to the cabin with the stranded persons. The adult, along with his two children, had spent the night on the roof of the cabin covered in a tarp.  All three were brought to Kotzebue and were not in need of medical attention. The Alaska State Troopers would like to thank Red Dog Mine for going above and beyond to facilitate this rescue.

On October 22, 2024, at 1:20 pm, Alaska State Troopers in Kotzebue were notified that three persons, one adult male and two children, were stranded 15 miles north of Kotzebue in a remote area.  AST was able to make cell phone contact via text messages with the adult who reported his cabin was flooded with standing water and his boat had been taken by the flood water. No local assets were available to respond due to high winds, high surf and poor visibility. The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center (AKRCC) was requested and is assessing the situation. Winds have subsided and a rescue is being attempted at first light, on October 23.   
  
The Kotzebue region has been hit with high winds. High surf and flooding occurred mid-morning on October 22 in Kotzebue, causing numerous homes to be evacuated.  Front Street and the south side of town have damage from the water and high surf.  A shelter has been set up at Maniilaq Health Center, with overflow going to the high school. The City of Kotzebue and the Northwest Arctic Borough have declared an emergency.  AST and local VPSOs are assisting.